Cape to Cape: Western Australia's Premier Mountain Biking Stage Race

When it comes to multi-day mountain bike events, Cape to Cape delivers an unparalleled mountain biking adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Western Australia. The Cape to Cape mountain bike event is essentially four days of great trails, mountain bike racing, camaraderie, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Set against the backdrop of Cape Leeuwin, Nannup, Margaret River, and Cape Naturaliste, this event is not just a race—it’s an experience of a lifetime.

The 2024 event runs from October 17-20. For those heading west from other states, we recommend flying into Perth at least a day before, or you can also fly direct to Busselton from Sydney or Melbourne, although the schedule is limited. All the more reason to stay longer and not rush home!

On the trails in Western Australia 

The Cape to Cape course winds its way through some of the most spectacular terrain in Western Australia’s southwest region. This isn’t a point-to-point race, so you can base yourself somewhere for your stay and head to each stage location as needed. Margaret River is a popular location but there are a number of options in the greater area.

Each stage of Cape to Cape offers its own unique challenges and rewards, promising an unforgettable journey for riders of all skill levels. The Cape to Cape organisers have also ensured each stage is able to be completed by handcyclists, with diversions in place as needed.

Stage One – Cape Leeuwin

The Cape to Cape adventure starts under the iconic Cape Leeuwin lighthouse, where the Indian and Southern Oceans collide in a mesmerising display of natural beauty. It’s also a place where riders from the east, west, south and north of the continent collide, ready to stake their claim for the event lead on stage one.

But don’t worry if that’s not why you’re here, wave starts mean those racing for sheep stations can do just that, without creating fuss for those there for the experience and personal challenge.

The trails here boast stunning coastal views, rocky outcrops, and technical descents that will put your skills to the test from the get-go.

Stage Two – Nannup

For the first time ever, Cape to Cape will head inland to Nannup and the Tank 7 mountain bike park, a trail destination that has quickly found popularity with mountain bikers all through the west. Moving inland means meandering rivers, and rolling hills that define this picturesque region. The trails in Nannup offer a refreshing change of scenery, with fast-flowing singletrack, plenty of build features and exhilarating descents that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

We’ve heard that some of the best courses designers around have had their hand in planning out this stage, and we reckon this could well be the best course of the whole four days. So make sure you’re ready!

Stage Three – Margaret River

Margaret River is the beating heart of Cape to Cape. Renowned for its world-class wine, gourmet food, and stunning coastline, Margaret River is a true gem of Western Australia. Here, the Cape to Cape course takes riders through towering karri forests, past sprawling vineyards, and along rugged coastal cliffs. It’s a feast for the senses, with every twist and turn revealing a new vista to marvel at.

Expect tall berms of hard-packed red dirt, fresh trails in the plantation, big built features to test your mettla, flat out trails along the river and some fast and loose descents that will keep you on your toes. With three stages done and just one to go, it’s a great day to sit back and enjoy the Saturday afternoon after the stage – and chances are your accommodation is close by too. So sit back and soak it all in!

Stage Four – Cape Naturaliste 

As you approach the final leg of your Cape to Cape journey, the trails around Cape Naturaliste offer a fitting finale to your Cape to Cape adventure. Ride through ancient forests, past secluded beaches, and up challenging climbs that will push you to your limits.The Zone 6 and golf course trails are built for slicing and dicing, often with multiple line options so you can style it up for the crowds or take the fast line for speed. You can expect fast trail conditions and close racing for those at the pointy end. 

As you near the finish line, take a moment to soak in the panoramic views of Geographe Bay—a fitting reward for your hard work and dedication.

A Celebration of Mountain Biking and Camaraderie

More than just a race, the Cape to Cape mountain bike event is a celebration of everything that makes mountain biking great. From the moment you arrive at the starting line, you’ll be swept up in the excitement and energy of the event, surrounded by fellow riders who share your passion for adventure and exploration.

Throughout the four days of racing, you’ll push yourself to new heights, tackling challenging terrain, conquering steep climbs, and descending heart-pounding descents with confidence and skill. But no matter how tough the trail, you’ll find encouragement and support from your fellow riders, as well as the enthusiastic crowds who line the course to cheer you on. Plus, it’s not a bad place to spend some down time and hang out after each stage as well.

And when the riding is done for the day, the fun is just getting started. It’s a chance to relax, unwind, and swap stories with fellow riders, forging friendships that will last a lifetime.

Sights of the South West

While Cape to Cape  may be the main attraction, Western Australia’s south west region offers a wealth of sights and experiences to explore during your visit.

From the rugged coastline of Cape Leeuwin, limestone caves, glorious beached and the towering forests of Manjimup, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to discover. Take a break from the bike and embark on a hike through ancient forests, or simply relax on pristine beaches and soak up the sunshine.

For food and wine enthusiasts, Margaret River is a paradise. Indulge your taste buds with world-class wines, gourmet cuisine, and fresh local produce, all against the backdrop of stunning vineyards and rolling hills.

And let’s not forget about the wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos bounding through the bush, dolphins playing in the waves, and whales breaching offshore. Western Australia is home to some of the world’s most iconic wildlife.

Mark your calendars, gather your gear, and join the Cape to Cape event crew in Western Australia this October for the ride of a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a novice mountain bike, the Cape to Cape mountain bike event promises an unforgettable experience that will create long lasting memories and introduce you to some great trails.