Backpack Victoria

CYCLING & SKATING

Cycling and skateboarding are great ways to explore Melbourne and surrounds. The city is bike, rollerblade and skateboard friendly, with well marked bike routes, scenic paths and skate parks to choose from.

Cycling standouts
The paved bayside track from Port Melbourne to Brighton is a highlight, with lots of people watching potential in summer. Another scenic path runs for 24 kilometres from Southgate along the Yarra River to Eltham. If you've left it late, hop on a train with your bike to get home.

Drop in at the park
Riverslide Skatepark in Melbourne's Alexandra Gardens is a five-minute skate from Flinders Street Railway Station. The park was designed in consultation with skaters and has a street-skating focus. Show off your skills and meet the locals.

Ride the tracks
A great alternative to riding and skating in Melbourne are the rural and suburban railtrails. These are old railroad tracks, often through beautiful countryside, which have been converted into paths for cycling, skating, horseriding and walking. Over 500 kilometers of rail lines have now been reclaimed across Victoria, with public access trails in Melbourne, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, Gippsland and the Goldfields area.

Getting kitted out
In Melbourne, bikes and skates can be hired from large cycle stores, especially in beachside locations like St Kilda, Middle Park and Elwood. Many Melbourne and regional hostels also have bikes for hire.

Rules and Etiquette
Wearing a helmet is a legal requirement for cyclists in Victoria. You must have front and rear lights on your bike for night riding too. Be careful when cycling or skating in the city. Beware of tram tracks, especially when they're wet, and motorists, who don't always look out for cyclists. For long distance and remote riding, contact a local cycle club about road and weather conditions before you go, or join a vehicle-supported ride.