Helidon (HeliDOOM) Loop

Route Length: 65km

Difficulty: HARD!

Surface Type: Gravel

Suitable For: Fit riders who like hill climbing!

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Not for the faint hearted!

This challenging ride has been a popular event in the Queensland cyclocross social calendar for a couple of years. The first half is all climbing, and the second half is all downhill.

Starting in the small Lockyer Valley town of Helidon (which has an IGA/cafe and a pub, so your choice of post-ride refuelling), the first few kilometres are pretty gentle as we roll through Lockyer Siding on our way towards Murphys Creek.

There’s a tough little pinch on Murphys Creek Rd on the bitumen, before we cross the railway line and head up into the hills.

We are climbing on gravel for the next 21 km, and there are Strava segments aplenty, so challenge yourself every time the road kicks up a bit, and you can find out later whether you’ve bested Queensland’s best cyclocrossers.

Close to the top there is a dry-weather only option on National Park Rd. This road becomes slimy red mud when it rains. Do not ask me how I know this because I’m trying to forget. The route we’ve supplied below takes the long way around on Esk-Hampton Road which is not nearly as much fun. Your choice on the day.

There is a nice little park at the turnaround point, with water and toilets.

And then all the pain of the climbing is forgotten as we descend on Seventeen Mile Road. It is 26km of fun fun fun, although there are a couple of small climbs on the way down that will test those tired legs. Depending on recent weather conditions, Seventeen Mile Road can be a little corrugated in places, but mostly you will be having the time of your life on the way down. A couple of the early sections are steep, so take care. Closer to Helidon the road flattens, but the downhill lasts all the way into the township.

A couple of sharp turns as you enter the town, and then out-sprint your companions to the “finish line” at Soldiers Memorial Park on the main street. Congratulations, you have faced your Helidoom and come out the other side!

What’s In the Area?

FOOD: The Floating Cafe in Grantham is just down the road from Helidon and a great spot for refueling. There is also a pub and an IGA in Helidon.

THINGS TO DO: Take a drive up the range to Toowoomba or visit the German Bake House and Wurst – quaint little building!

BIKE SHOP: Bikeline Toowoomba is just 15 minutes up the road, you can find them on our Bike Store Locater here. 

AMENITIES: After you’ve done the climb up to Blackbean day-use area, turn left up National Park Rd to Ravensbourne Recreation Reserve for toilets and a nice place to have a rest.

ACCOMODATION: The Lockyer Motel has natural mineral water spring that runs through the property makes it unique to the region and is the only Mineral Water Motel in QLD, with a spa in every room.