The Cleland to Crafers Track is a scenic, MTB Green (easy) rated trail with beautiful views to the ocean.
It’s seven kilometres one way with 200 metres of climbing. As an out-and-back ride, it’s fourteen kilometres with an overall climb of 360 metres. Apart from the climbing, it’s not a difficult trail – quite manageable even for an Uncool (limited MTB skills) rider like myself!
You can start the track from either Cleland or Crafers. However, as Cleland has a slightly lower elevation, and as the first four kilometres climbing out of Cleland are quite challenging, I think starting at the Cleland end is more enjoyable.
The highlight of the out-and-back ride is the scenic views of the ocean, which are at their best when seen on the return track from Crafers to Cleland.
To keep things manageable, be sure to follow the Green arrows (MTB-rated easy).
Map of the Cleland Crafers Track
If you prefer a loop ride, you can start at Crafers, ride the Cleland Crafers Track down to Cleland and then continue on the bitumen up to Mount Lofty.
With a similar amount of overall climbing, it’s well worth it for the views on a clear day. However, taking this route, the second half is all bitumen and you will have to share with a few cars.
Here’s a ride suggestion for including Mount Lofty:
Summary of the Cleland Crafers Track
- Length: Seven kilometres one way with 200 metres climbing. Fourteen kilometres out-and-back with 360 metres climbing.
- Difficulty: Moderate due to some steep inclines, narrow tracks and uneven surfaces.
- Suitable for mountain bikes or eMTB
- Surface: Gravel/dirt
- Signage: While there are arrows indicating the MTB level (green, blue or black) at each junction, it can be confusing as this route utilises a number of different trails (Chambers Gully to Crafers Trail, Steub Trail, and Mount Lofty Crafers Trail). I recommend you use the map above, and be sure to follow only the Green MTB arrows.
- Best Times: Suitable for most times of the year, but avoid very hot days.
- Coffee and Food: Crafers Bean Cafe in Crafers (toilets for customers), has a great egg and bacon roll. Cleland Wildlife Park has a cafe, and you can access the toilets if you buy a coffee.
Another awesome ride in the area is the Crafers Bikeway.
