Scenic Rim XC Adventure

We’ve seen some stunning sights in the Scenic Rim over the last couple of years, and wanted to bring more of our friends here. There is too much to see in one day, so we spent a whole weekend exploring this wonderful place.

We stayed on the shores of the lake at Camp Moogerah. Some of us pitched a tent, some stayed in cabins, or cars. Others just came up for the day.

Day 1.

Top | Day 1 | Day 2

 

On Saturday morning, we rode out of the camp, and followed the picturesque shoreline of Lake Moogerah towards Mount Greville.

 

Forty bikes snaked along the quiet back roads towards the dirt: Mountain Bikes, Fat Bikes and even a couple of Cyclocross Bikes.

I love these sorts of rides. Dozens of happy, friendly people, in colorful clothes, all “in the moment”, all appreciating the beauty of the landscape.

It’s like a party on wheels.

After a short time on the road we hit the dirt near Munchows Crossing.

Because of the good water supply and flat terrain, this is a popular bush camp for long-distance trekkers on the Bicentennial National Trail.

Some of us splashed through – others dodged the deep sections and tip-toed over the rocks.

We all quickly got out of the way when a huge semi-trailer thundered through.

What was he doing out here? No one knew, but a few people suggested he stop the truck for a minute and let us use him as a temporary bridge.

He smiled and just drove on.

Our “peloton” rolled along quiet tracks behind Mount Greville.

Today was perfect riding weather – clouds kept the sun from burning us, and a gentle breeze kept the temperature reasonable.

There were riders of all abilities, but everyone kept together. Rides are more fun (and easier to manage) when the group doesn’t get too spread out.

Eventually we reached Spicers Gap Road and started the long slow climb up the hill.

It was steep. Some of us walked at times. Some of us pedaled, stopped and pedaled again.

I recited a poem to myself and pedaled to the rhythm.

It’s a long way to the top – almost ten kilometres.

Warren arrived early at the top on his cyclocross bike. It was strange to see him rolling around the bush on a road bike with drop-bars.

The view at the top was special. Through the humid haze we could see across the lake toward Mount Edwards. I was drenched in sweat from the climb and enjoyed the cool breeze on my damp jersey.

(Photo: Tony Ryan)

 

(Photo: Jason Reed)

This goanna lazed on the nearby rocks gazing out at the view, unfazed by our presence.

After a short break at the top, we rocketed back down the hill.

It took ages to descend the ten kilometres to the bottom. A couple of people got flat tyres.

The last section of the descent was long and straight. We could let go the brakes and enjoy the final rush at speed, with a clear view of the track ahead.

We all chilled out at the bottom waiting for everyone else to arrive.

(Photo: Jason Reed)

Unfortunately, Ian had a crash.

He had been carrying a jacket wrapped around his handlebars. The jacket slipped onto his front wheel as he sped down the hill, the wheel jammed, and he was thrown over the bars at speed.

By some amazing stroke of luck he survived with a minor concussion.

Darb was by his side in an instant to see if he was ok, and our wonderful support driver, Suzanne, was able to drive him to the hospital to get checked out.

We’re glad you’re ok, Ian!

 

As we rode back from Spicers Gap, one thing was on everyone’s mind: lunch. We had earned it.

We plummeted down the last steep hill before Mount Alford…

… and rolled into the local pub.

(Photos: Tony Ryan)

Local brewers Mike and Wendy Webster from Scenic Rim Brewery brought some of their famous beer for us to sample.

It went very well with a steak sandwich and chips, but by the end of lunch I was starting to feel quite sluggish.

 

The last section of our first-day’s ride took us up one last climb along Tunstall Road. With a full belly and tired legs I found it quite challenging. Justin kindly rode with me most of the way.

(Photo: Tony Ryan)
Ahh… soaking in the lake afterwards. Perfect!

 

Back at camp the rain gently started to fall.

We huddled under a few shelters and relaxed.

Luckily the rain stopped, and we were able to have a BBQ dinner together.

Everyone contributed something, and there was plenty for everyone.

Here’s Darb’s video of the day.