Cromwell Mountain Bike Club (CMBC) is gaining traction to develop “world class” mountain bike trails within riding distance of town to provide another reason for bikers to visit and stay longer when they do.

One of their projects is to develop a network of trails in conjunction with Shannon Farm developers, Infinity Investments Group, at the end of Ripponvale Road, Cromwell.

A concept trail design has been created by Tom Hey of Elevate Trails and the club is progressing on the final design, consent process and fundraising options available.

CMBC spokesperson and committee member Andy McDonald said their aim is to develop free world class mountain bike trails in Cromwell’s surrounding hills. 

“Not only will locals spend more time riding local trails, [but] we will have more visitors to the area ride our trails.”

The CMBC is about to “officially” launch and welcome members now that Plan Change 14 approval has been given by the council and the Shannon Farm project will progress.

The terrain there allows for a scenic climbing trail to a hub and summit with 300 vertical metres.

There is room for multiple trails of varying grades and the proximity of the farm to town means mountain bikers can access the trails under pedal power alone.

“Dirt will start being turned once we have finalised plans, permissions and funding for the initial stages of the project, which we are working on now,” Andy said.

New members and those interested in trail projects can head to Bike It Now Cromwell at 2E The Mall, on Friday September 2, 1-4pm and Saturday September 3, 12 - 4pm. 

CMBC was formed in September 2019 and has been “very busy” behind the scenes searching for local land suitable for trails, and then becoming an incorporated society and a registered charity two years ago.

For more information contact.

Riders are rushing to the Dunstan Trail and plans for new trails in Cromwell will continue to pique the interest of mountain bikers