5 PEAKS CHALLENGE ROTARY RIDES CANBERRA

Location: ACT
Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026

Experience the Five Peaks Challenge, where Canberra's most iconic summits become your personal proving ground. This unique event lets you tackle up to six legendary peaks while choosing your own adventure - from the full 120 km route with 2,000m of climbing to a more manageable 57 km scenic journey.

Whether you're chasing segment times or soaking in Australia's finest capital views, this Rotary Rides Canberra event combines serious cycling achievement with community impact.

Date: Sunday, 19 April, 2026

Location: Stromlo Forest Park, ACT

Start Time:

  • 120 km route: 7:30 AM
  • 88 km route: 8:00 AM

Event Type: Personal challenge hill climb

Distance Options:

  • Uriarra Plus: 120 km (2,000m elevation)
  • Classic: 88 km (1,445m elevation)
  • Customisable: Design your own challenge by selecting peaks

Starting from Stromlo Forest Park, riders face six distinctive peaks that showcase Canberra's natural amphitheater: Mt. Stromlo (782m), Red Hill (720m), Mt Pleasant (663m), Mt Ainslie (843m), Black Mountain (812m), and Dairy Farmers Hill (673m).

The course features well-marked routes with yellow arrows and volunteer marshals at key points. Each peak offers unique challenges and remarkable views across the capital, with the Uriarra Loop adding an extra dimension for those seeking the ultimate test.

Early Bird (until March 9, 2025): $88

Standard (until April 24, 2025): $97

At-Event Registration: $110

Registration includes:

  • Detailed route map and cue sheet
  • Rider card for peak achievements
  • Course marking and marshal support
  • Post-ride sausage sizzle
  • Support vehicle access

Event proceeds support Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children, The Early Morning Centre, and Australian Rotary Health.

Uriarra Plus (120 km)

  • Full six-peak experience
  • 2,000m total climbing
  • Early 7:30 AM start
  • Ideal for experienced climbers

Classic Route (88 km)

  • Six peaks, shorter distance
  • 1,445m elevation gain
  • 8:00 AM start
  • Perfect for first-time peak baggers

Customisable Challenge

  • Choose your peaks
  • Flexible distance options
  • E-bikes welcome
  • Design your personal adventure

Refreshment Stations:

  • Royal Australian Mint (with coffee van)
  • Black Mountain Peninsula
  • Energy snacks at peak checkpoints

Technical Support:

  • Cycle City mechanics at start
  • On-course support vehicles
  • Emergency assistance
  • Marked checkpoints at each peak
  • Event Organiser: Murrumbidgee Canberra Rotary Club
  • Email: rotarymurrumbidgeecbr@gmail.com
  • Website: rotaryrides.org.au

By Car

  • From Sydney: 3 hours via Federal Highway/M23 (290 km)
  • From Melbourne: 7 hours via Hume Highway/M31 (660 km)
  • From Brisbane: 15 hours via Pacific Highway/M1 (1,200 km)
  • Follow directional signage to Stromlo Forest Park via John Gorton Drive and Opperman Avenue

By Air

  • Canberra Airport (30 minutes from event site)
  • Regular services from all major Australian cities
  • Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Rex
  • Car hire available at terminal
  • Ride share and taxi services readily available

By Train

  • NSW TrainLink services from:
  • Sydney (4 hours)
  • Melbourne (10 hours)
  • Coach connections to city centre

Make your Five Peaks Challenge a complete Canberra experience by exploring the nation's capital before and after your ride.

Cycling Specific

Recovery Activities

Cultural Attractions

Family Activities

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