Ararat to Arapiles Bikepack and Trad Climbing Bonanza

If you don't mind filling those panniers with a few hexes join us for the fun! This trip will consist of five days of climbing at Arapiles sandwiched between two days of riding starting in Ballarat. On the way we will enjoy views of the Grampians and stop overnight at Moyston. There is a lot going on for this trip, and while the riding and climbing on its own should not constitute the advanced category, the combination demands a certain demographic of stoked riders. 

During the bikepack we will be riding with climbing gear (ropes, racks, harnesses, shoes ,etc.). This will require coordination and likely tent groups upon our arrival at the pines to ensure our pack is light enough.

Some gravel roads near the Grampians and Natimuk are quite unkempt. It is recommended to have a gravel bike with at least 35mm tyres.

If you do not own bikepacking gear you can hire panniers and pannier racks from the club.

In order to trad climb at Arapiles you must be ticked off in the MUMC climbing framework. If you are not but have prior experience climbing outdoors please email your logbook to

Participants are required to be ticked off in the MUMC climbing framework.

Attendance to the trip meeting on 02/07/2024 is mandatory

Bikepack Details

Day 1: Ararat to Roses Gap (65km, 400m elevation) 13/07/2024

Catch the 8:14 service from Southern Cross Station to Ararat, arriving at 10:42

After a stop at the Ararat bakery, we will continue to Halls Gap for a well earned snack

Arrive at Roses Gap, setting up tents and cooking dinner at Troopers Creek Campground

Day 2: Roses Gap to The Pines (100km, 200m elevation) 14/07/2024

Wake up 7:00, begin riding at 8:00

Arrive at Horsham around 11:00 to shop for food for the following days

Continue for an optional stop at Natimuk for water, phone charging, and gallivanting

Arrive at the Pines before sunset and get stoked to send

Days 3-7 16/07/2024-20/07/2024

Send hard!!

Expect a day ride to and from Horsham during our time to replenish camp supplies!

Day 8: The Pines to Roses Gap (100km, 115m elevation) 21/07/2024

Say goodbye to the pines around 8:00 and begin the ride to Horsham

Arrive at Horsham 11-noon, eating lunch and refilling water

Continue to Roses Gap, camping at Troopers Creek once again!

Day 9: Roses Gap to home!

Early rise at 6:30 and begin riding at 7:30

Stop at Halls Gap to have a think about the projects you didn't send while you enjoy a snack