Skill level accommodated:
- •Intermediate
- •Advanced
Escape to the Noosa Hinterland this May for BQ’s Weekend at Pomona – Bicycle Queensland’s newest off-road adventure designed for intermediate gravel riders, mountain bikers, e-bike explorers, and active families with confident teens aged 12+.
Across two days you’ll discover the best of the Noosa Trail Network and the quiet backroads that weave through open farmland, forests, ridgelines and the character-filled streets of Pomona and the surrounding hinterland. Each day offers a shorter, more dedicated off-road ride option or a longer, more challenging ride that uses more gravel and back roads – all supported by experienced ride leaders, detailed digital mapping, and BQ’s on-ground event team. These routes are all on mixed terrain, swapping between road, trails, gravel roads and firetrails – so expect a bit of everything and bring a bike to suit.
Ride Options
Saturday May 16:
Off-road explorer (Cooran + Pinbarren): 32km, ~750m
A scenic loop through Cooran via the Noosa Trail Network and around Mount Pinbarren before a rolling return beneath Mount Cooroora. This route is almost 80% off road, and most riders will prefer a mountain bike for the lower gearing for the climb to James M McKane look out.
Go for gravel (Woondum + Kin Kin) 79km, ~1600m
A big day out looping Woondum National Park, on a mix of country roads and gravel roads – with some sections of the Noosa Trail Network. This route is about 65% off-road with just a few percent on trail making it an ideal gravel bike challenge. There’s a sting in the tail, but it should leave you with enough energy to enjoy your afternoon in Pomona.
Sunday May 17:
Gravel Explorer – Tewantin National Park: 37km, 500m
A gentler morning ride with forest road flow towards Tewantin, before riding back to Pomona. This route is a mix of gravel roads and back roads, with minimal time on pure off-road trails. About 60% is on unsealed roads.
Get out there! – Black Mountain + Noosa Trails
A challenging loop exploring Black Mountain and the Noosa Trail Network beyond Pomona. Picture ridgetops roads and climbs to stunning views, with fast descents back to the valleys.
Your Weekend Base: The BQ Hub – Pomona Showgrounds
The BQ Hub is your meet-point, rest stop and social space, complete with:
- Ride registration & sign-on/off
- Bike support: track pumps, tools and mechanic assistance
- Rider support: water refills, drink mix, sunscreen & sanitiser
- BQ merch & info desk
- Milling space & bike parking, plus casual games for active downtime
Event costs
BQ Members: $120
Non-member adults: $175
Children 12-17: $25
Every rider receives a Rider Pack including BQ bottle, BQ neck gaiter, event plate/wristband and more. Riders will be emailed downloadable route files in the weeks before the event, with a complete digital event program, via their registered email address.
Make It a Mini-Getaway
Pomona is a perfect base for a relaxed cycling weekend. Between rides you can:
- Explore the Pomona Markets or the Noosa Shire Museum on Saturday morning and afternoon respectively
- Grab excellent coffee from local cafés or fuel up at Pomona’s pubs and eateries
- Cruise to Noosa Parkrun if you’re keen for a pre-ride leg loosener
Where to stay
The world is your oyster for the Weekend at Pomona – bring your tent and book in at the Pomona Showgrounds or better yet – bring your caravan! There’s also a range of short stay accommodation providers in the greater region with options from bland to glam. You could even book a room at the Pomona Hotel – the perfect spot for live music fans. Any accommodation must be booked privately as it is not included with the event.
Pomona Showgrounds have powered and unpowered sites to book, you will need to book a powered site if you want to charge an e-bike. Camping at the Showgrounds starts at $40/night for singles, or $45 for two people. Mention you are with Bicycle Queensland for a discounted rate.
Ride, relax, explore – at your pace
BQ’s Weekend at Pomona is designed to be social, scenic and supportive. While ride leaders are on hand, you’re free to complete the rides at your own pace. Enjoy two days of discovering new roads and trails with friends old and new, backed by the safety and experience of Bicycle Queensland.
Join us for an unforgettable weekend in the Noosa Hinterland.
BICYCLE QUEENSLAND MEMBERSHIP
Giving riders peace of mind worldwide, advocating for a safer and accessible riding network, and growing a community which champions riding for transport, recreation and sport. Our memberships include personal accident, public liability and income protection insurance (excluding BQ Supporter) plus a range of discounts and offers including riding apparel and accessories, nutrition and more.
If you’re not a current BQ member, you have the opportunity to purchase an annual membership at a 25% discount during the event registration process. This offer is exclusively available to non-members, and during the event registration process only.
