A quick spin down the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail towards Everton and Wangaratta finds you at the beginning of the Flame Trees loop project. The Beechworth Chain Gang, Beechworth’s mountain biking club, have completed 10 km of what is hoped to eventually be a 40 km continuous single track loop.

Suitable for the entry level rider, the combination of rocks and multiple gradient changes pose a challenge for the more accomplished rider. Multiple short but technical descents into the shaded gullies beside the rail trail are followed by snaking switchbacked climbs.

There’s a small carpark where Diffey Rd crosses the Rail Trail marking the trailhead – from there watch for the bollards that direct you on and off the rail trail on the left as you descend. There are no toilets or drinking water facilities so come prepared.