MOUNT BULLER

Trail: Pinnacle Track to Carter’s Road Local Tip: Embrace the journey. Total Descent: 687m (8km) Shuttle Cost: $25

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n 2014, Mount Buller opened the Epic Trail, boasting nearly 40km of singletrack, 1245m of ascending, and 2187m of descending. The term ‘Epic’ is no superlative here; it’s an official badge bestowed by the IMBA (International Mountain Bike Association), and Buller’s trail was the first in the Southern Hemisphere to receive it. The entire route could be considered a descent, as there’s nearly 1000m more descending than climbing. But the final 10km is the jewel in the crown, a seemingly endless spiral of machined track through the alpine foliage. It’s Derby-esque in its structure and feel, probably because it too was built by the revered World Trail team.

Unable to shuttle this 10km separately from the rest of the Epic Trail, riders must earn their turn; but you’re earning it via one of the grandest and most picturesque trails in the country – hardly a compromise. This trail will suit any bike with the right attitude - myself, Shannon Rademaker (All Terrain Cycles & Gravity Oz Coaching), and Dave “Danger” McCoombe (Buller Resort Management) were all aboard 170-180mm travel rigs. XC whippets will embrace the climbs through this half-marathon, while enduro riders will appreciate a day-long adventure with a fast finish. At the end of the Epic trail, a pre-booked Blue Dirt shuttle will return all riders to the resort.

It’s common practice for alpine resorts such as Buller to transform themselves into mountain bike networks during summer. However, most visitors don’t realise many of the winter accommodation and dining options are available throughout summer. Places such as Mt Buller Chalet Hotel and

ABOM Bistro offer bike-friendly and professional hospitality at affordable rates. The convenience of staying on-mountain cannot be overstated, with trailheads and spectacular scenery at your fingertips.

Awaking to a breathtaking sunrise from Buller Chalet, the journey begins on the Village doorstep via Gang Gangs. The majority of the Epic goes quickly, as you glide along mild gradients between mountainous views. But there is one section (there’s always one) which will test your skills, strength, and patience: Stonefly. Consider this technical climb as the gates through which riders worthy of the final descent must pass. After this 7km ascent, you will reap the fruits of your labour. The Stirling Trail carries you effortlessly to the midpoint of the Epic and onto the Razorback Trail. Once you reach the “Enjoy” sign, heaven awaits. You will drop nearly 700m over 10km from the Pinnacle Track, Scandi-flicking through loamy turns while chasing your crew through the sun-soaked ferns. A and B lines are obviously placed along this flow trail, giving riders the confidence to release the brakes and lean forward into the good times. And the good times are set to continue with a $1.25 million state government grant dedicated to refurbishing and upgrading the Buller network. The esteemed trail builders from Contour Works (known for their Derby work) and Trailscapes (creators of ‘Shred Kelly’ in Bright and the Wild Mersey trails), will be heading the project. Needless to say, Buller is about to update its place on the mountain bike map and now is the time to start planning your alpine holiday!

“YOU WILL DROP NEARLY 700M OVER 10KM FROM THE PINNACLE TRACK, SCANDI-FLICKING THROUGH LOAMY TURNS WHILE CHASING YOUR CREW THROUGH THE FERNS.” SUN-SOAKED