For all our readers who are bike crazy (or have bike crazy children) here is a list of Skate Parks and Pump Tracks across the Tablelands. From easy to advanced tracks, there’s something for everyone of all ages.

1. Mareeba Skate Park – Located on Walsh St. beside the PCYC. A mix of beginner and advanced features. Can get quite busy so best to bring littlies during school hours.

2. Atherton Skate Park – Located on Vernon St. behind the Atherton Library. (Access from Vernon St.).

3. Ravenshoe Skate Park – Located on Ascham St. The smallest park on the Tablelands, better for more experienced riders but little ones can still have fun here.

4. Mareeba Pump Track – Located in the grassy area on the corner of Byrnes St. and Hwy 1. This track is great for Young Kids who are just getting used to bumps and jumps. Mostly shady all day, which is a blessing in the hot Mareeba sunshine.

5. Tolga Pump Track – Located on Main Street, just past the playground. Similar to Mareeba pump track these small dirt mounds are great for young kids. There is also a more advanced track for older kids looking to practice their bike skills. Stop in at Spring Bean for a coffee and their famous macaroons and it’s a win-win for adults and kids alike.

6. Atherton Pump Track – Located in the heart of Atherton, turn left on Vernon St. towards the rail trail. There are options here for young kids as well as more skilled riders. There are several loops to choose from, one that takes riders down the hill towards the creek and back up the other side. Great for parents who want some exercise following their kids around.

7. Yungaburra Pump Track – Located in the grass area beside the Yungaburra Memorial Hall on Mulgrave Rd. This track is not appropriate for really young kids as the jumps and bumps are too big. However, the open hall offers a great under cover area for young kids to scoot around on their bikes, while older kids can enjoy some of the larger jumps on the track.

8. Millaa Millaa Pump Track – Located at the far end of Lions Park on Main street. This track is good for young kids. It is built on a hill so is a bit more challenging than the Tolga or Mareeba pump tracks. Pair it up with a trip to the playground and a stop at Rumours Diner for a great day out.

9. Atherton BMX Club – Located on Grove St. this track is the only BMX club outside Cairns. To ride this track you must be a member, however, spectators are always welcome when the track opens on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays for racing. Coaches help riders hone their skills on Mondays so come and check out the action and consider signing up. Membership prices start at $32 per year depending on the riders age. Riders require helmet, gloves, long pants, long shirt, a bike and a desire to have some fun.

(printed in the September 2020 issue of What’s On & Where to Go magazine)