This 22 kilometre, hilly dirt road loop showcases perfectly what Adelaide Hills cycling has to offer: orchards, vineyards, koalas, tree-lined avenues and some challenging climbs.
Beautiful in any season, a summer ride might include the Cherry Shed Cafe in December or January, while autumn is the perfect time to see stunning autumn colours in the vineyards.
Winton Road
Starting at Federation Reserve in Gumeracha, you turn off the bitumen after two kilometres and start climbing Winton Road. This good quality dirt road is notable for its cherry orchards and vineyards. I have also seen koalas several times in the magnificent gums which border the road.
As you climb, the views become more scenic.
At the six kilometre mark, you reach the crest of Winton Road.
From there, you can enjoy a lovely descent of over a kilometre to reach Torrens Valley Road.
Birdwood
If you are riding in December or January, the ideal coffee stop is at the Cherry Shed Cafe, towards the end of the loop.
However, if the Cherry Shed Cafe is not open, take a detour into Birdwood for your coffee stop. Lovells Bakery in Birdwood is a cyclist-friendly cafe.
Angas Creek Road
On the next section of this Adelaide Hills ride, you join the Mawson Trail for a short while as it passes vineyards and apple and pear orchards.
Continuing on past the Mawson Trail turn-off, you arrive at Jackson Hill Road.
Jackson Hill Road
Jackson Hill Road is a quiet and scenic dirt road which passes a range of vineyards and smaller farms.
In autumn, it’s a particularly scenic ride because of the bright reds of the Pinot Noir vineyards, which contrast with the more common yellow colours.
The last section of Jackson Hill Road was badly burnt out in the Cuddlee Creek bushfires in December 2019, but is now making a good recovery.
Summary of Gumeracha Dirt Road Loop
Here is the map for this Adelaide Hills Cycling Loop:
With three climbs of 6% to 9% gradients, it’s a challenging ride. However, the short distance of 22 kilometres makes the ride manageable for a reasonably fit average cyclist.
Other Rides in the Adelaide Hills
Another great gravel ride in the Adelaide Hills is the Warmington Run and Sandy Waterhole loop.
If you prefer to stay on the bitumen and climb lower gradient hills, why not give the Amy Gillett Rail Trail a try? Other interesting rides in the Adelaide Hills are the Crafers Bikeway and the Belair Lynton Bike Path.
If you would like to join the Uncool Cycling Club and participate in rides like this, go to our Facebook Group.
Top photo: Winton Road in summer
