Forsyths Mill, Perth Hills
Overview
A short cross country track that packs in loads of features with no major climbs but lots of log rolls, bomb holes and jumps. Great for a group with mixed riding ability.
A rider performs a tricky jump at Forsyths Mill
About the Trail
Forsyths Mill always seems like a fairly long drive for such a short loop. However every metre of this fun singletrack loop is packed with action. The short return to the car park and lack of any major climbs make it attractive to beginner riders. There is plenty here for the more experienced rider though with fast corners, tight turns, log overs and some Black rated obstacles near the end of the loop.
Forsyths is the ideal destination for a large group of mixed abilities - you can all ride round at your own speed and never be far away from a re-group in the car park. The very short beginner loop is also a great introduction.
Getting There:
Forsyth Mills is just off the Great Eastern Highway 11km to the East of Mundaring. Shortly after passing the large left hand turn to Old Northam Road turn right onto Gorrie Rd. Forsyth Mills is imediately on the right.
Route Directions:
The trail starts from towards the back right of the carpark. A singeltrack path heads off into the bush. Follow the track in a clockwise direction. For the most part the trail is obvious. Occasionally it will run along a 4WD track, be careful to pick up the trail when it turns off. After the first lap you won't go wrong.
There is also a shorter kids loop near to the car park.
Need to Know
-
Time
30 minutes per lap -
Distance
6km loop Length is 6km (Loop). -
Trail Start (Loop)
Cnr of Great Eastern Highway and Gorrie Rd (1km past Lake Leschenaultia turn off) 45km east of Perth -
Degree of Difficulty
Moderate - Moderate level of fitness and experience required.
There's a very short beginner's loop near the carpark.
-
What to Pack?
Group C (Mountain bike trails) required.
- Group A and B items (see Trail Tips) plus
- Gloves to prevent blisters
- Spare inner tubes or puncture repair kit, pump, tool kit
- Mountain bike shoes and clipless pedals are recommended
-
Best Time of the Year
Cooler months when trail surface isn't too dry. -
Facilities
Take your own drinking water and snacks. Closest stores are at Chidlow - or stop at Mundaring on the way back to Perth. Mobile phone reception: At Forsyth Mill there is excellent Telstra reception, good Optus reception and no Vodaphone reception.
-
Hazards & Warnings
Watch out for the pea gravel. Trail surface gets loose and slippery in the summer months (Dec to April) -
Access to the Trail
Car 2WD -
Trail Contact
WAMBA - West Australian Mountain Bike Association
Email: info@wamba.org.au
Web: http://wamba.org.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wamba.org.au
Twitter: @@wambaMTB
Destinations
Chidlow
Chidlow, in the heart of the Darling Range, is a charming country town, surrounded by beautiful countryside criss-crossed with trails through native flora and fauna rich woodlands. It's the ideal base for bushwalking, cycling and horse riding, as well as swimming and canoeing at nearby Lake Leschenaultia. Just 50 minutes east from Perth by car, Chidlow was originally a busy railway town on the old Eastern Railway, built in the 1880s but decommissioned in 1966. Today, Chidlow is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. All that remains of the railway is the Heritage Trail that retraces the 70 kilometre Fremantle to York railway line, and Lake Leschenaultia, which was originally constructed to provide water for the steam trains. On the Railway Heritage Trail, you'll discover the unique history and character of the small settlements that sprang up along the railway line. It's suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding, and is a great way to experience the native forests and bushland. Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife, kangaroos, echidnas and, if you're visiting in spring, stop to admire the colourful wildflowers that blanket the countryside. If you're looking for somewhere to cool off after exploring the trail, Lake Leschenaultia's inviting waters and sandy beaches await. Take a refreshing dip, hire a canoe and paddle your way around the lake, or take a leisurely water-side stroll around the three kilometre trail circuit. Alternatively, relax on one of the lake's beaches with a picnic or barbecue lunch beneath the shade of the gum trees. For a night under the stars, camp out at Lake Leschenaultia, or opt for some comfort and hospitality at a local bed and breakfast or self-contained cottage.
Chidlow
