Several weeks back Callum from BCX Projects and the team at TrailScapes gave us an exclusive tour of the under-construction EPIC Mountain Bike Trail between Beechworth and Yackandandah… and wow, it’s looking sweet!
This incredible and immersive trail will link the existing Yack Tracks MTB network in the Stanley State Forest to Beechworth Historic Park (via the Nine Mile Creek Heritage Area), with 22km of newly constructed trail, 2km of renewed trail and 24km of existing trail. No need to get your calculators out, that’s 48km.
Epic trails are granted their Epic status by IMBA, the International Mountain Bike Association. Trails must be a demanding singletrack adventure in a natural setting: “True backcountry riding experiences that are technically and physically challenging, more than 80% singletrack and at least 32kms in length.” Sounds like a good time to us, and our visit confirmed that the experience of riding the trail is going to be exactly that. Native forest, lush ferns, sculpted trails and a High Country town with cafes, pubs, breweries and accommodation at either end. No, you’re not dreaming.
It’s not the first epic trail in the Ride High Country region – Mt Buller’s Epic trail has been enjoyed by countless riders for around 10 years, but while Buller Epic closes over winter due to snowfall, the new Indigo Epic trail (that name’s not confirmed yet) will be Australia’s only all-season Epic trail, meaning you can plan your trip to Beechworth or Yackandandah whenever you like.
Please note that these trails are not ready to ride yet, as trail builders are on-site right now working with machinery and safety is the priority. Some sections are likely to be open in spring, with the project due to be completed end-to-end around Christmas.
To learn a little more about this exciting project, head to the Indigo Shire website.