Cycling Routes Safe for Families and Beginners: Where to Ride in Tasmania This Winter

Demand for safe, beginner-friendly cycling routes is climbing across Tasmania, driven by a surge in families and new riders who want to enjoy the outdoors without contending with heavy traffic. The state’s patchwork of greenways, foreshore paths and shared trails is proving more popular than ever as locals seek new ways to stay active during the school holidays.

Safety and Accessibility on the Agenda

Concerns over road safety have taken on greater urgency as national data points to a growing appetite for cycling. Families and those new to two wheels are often wary of riding on busy city streets, instead looking for off-road paths or trails with clear signage and gentle gradients. Tasmania’s cycleways offer an alternative-and more social-option, especially in colder months when motivation to exercise can dip.

One of Tasmania’s flagship family routes is the Intercity Cycleway. Stretching from Claremont in Hobart’s northern suburbs to the waterfront precinct in the city centre, this sealed, near-level path is separated from road traffic for its majority and easily accessed via spots like Cornelian Bay and New Town. The route meanders past the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, under the Bowen Bridge, and through leafy parks. It’s popular with families thanks to playgrounds and cafes just off the path.

Further afield, the New Norfolk Wetlands Cycle Trail is drawing attention for its combination of countryside scenery and protected track. The trail skirts the Derwent River and neighbouring wetlands, offering gentle riding, interpretive signage about local birdlife, and ample picnic stops. It’s managed by the Derwent Valley Council and is regularly maintained. Families have also been spotted riding quieter stretches near Risdon Brook Dam Reserve and Kingston’s Whitewater Creek Track.

Participation on the Rise

Tasmania has shown a robust appetite for recreational cycling in recent years. According to the findings of the National Cycling Participation Survey 2023, 17.2% of Tasmanians reported cycling in a typical week. Local bike organizations and councils have since launched monthly “beginner rides” and skills workshops at venues such as John Turnbull Park in Lenah Valley. Family-friendly events, including the Hobart Waterfront parkrun which regularly welcomes cyclists alongside runners, are encouraging community participation. Public investment continues, with Hobart City Council maintaining its commitment to improving shared path networks and wayfinding signage.

While Tasmanian weather can be brisk mid-winter, many locals report that cooler temperatures make cycling more comfortable. Riders are reminded to check for wet or slippery surfaces, especially in shaded areas around Berriedale Foreshore Reserve and on early-morning rides out of Montrose Bay.

For families and new riders, the best approach is to start local. The RISDON Vale and Glenorchy neighbourhoods connect directly to existing shared tracks, offering residents a smoother entry to cycling. “Try a one-way trip along the Intercity Cycleway, finish with a treat at one of Hobart’s waterfront bakeries, then catch Metro Tasmania back to your starting point,” suggests guidance shared on the Glenorchy City Council website.

For those looking to join a group or improve skills, community cycling meetups and beginner rides are advertised through Bicycle Network Tasmania and local council event pages. Some bike shops-including several Hobart CBD locations-run periodic “first ride” clinics and can recommend suitable starter bikes for children and adults. As the days slowly lengthen into spring, accessibility, clear signage, and group riding opportunities look set to drive participation numbers even higher-and keep cycling safe and enjoyable for Tasmanians of all ages.