Our third day on the fine Atherton trails was all about catching a juicy sunrise from the sweet singletrack high above the luscious town of Atherton.
Building trails atop a ridge line makes for some fast undulating riding, Ridgey Didge is a great fun track joining up three hilltops above town has gorgeous views and ripper singletrack that undulates its way high up in the range. When passing through Leasies Lookout the day before we knew that this would be a particularly nice spot to start the next days exploring, with its easterly aspect overlooking green pastures. Returning there just after sunrise dressed in no warm clothing whatsoever, we were greeted with a glorious warmth in the air and on our faces as the sun began its day of cooking everything it touches.
We thought we were up early, but it turns out we weren’t alone, many friendly locals passed by on their morning ritual on world class singletrack before their day grinds onward. It’s clear that mountain biking is becoming more integrated into the way of life up here, the locals are embracing it, and we even bumped into a German couple making their way from Canada, USA and Australia with their mountain bikes. They too were surprised what they discovered when the rode out from the quiet country town and into the forest.
From Ridgey didge, up Bandy Bandy we went, snaking our way up big switchback turns that seem to help you elude that unsavoury feeling of grinding up a long climb. And from crackling dry scrub, to whistling casuarina forest, random rocky outcrops and pockets of bright green bracken, Bandy Bandy takes it all in.
With berms big enough to hold more than twice your speed we hurtled back down the other side and around to the start of the loop, wondering how the descent could have given so much back, earned from what seemed like quite an enjoyable climb.
We are really getting a feel for the lay of the land up here now, you could really take in some epic loops as many of the trails link together really nicely.
It’s a good life up here, we are loving the gentle pace of lifestyle, exciting and unique climate, great trails and remarkably sweet pineapple.
Until next time, we’re off for a XXXX.