OTWAY ODYSSEY MTB MARATHON

Location: VIC
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026

The 20th Anniversary Otway Odyssey stands as Australia's most iconic off-road cycling weekend, uniting mountain bike and gravel communities for two days of legendary racing through Victoria's spectacular Otway Ranges. Taking place in the trail town of Forrest, this milestone celebration combines challenging courses with festival atmosphere, welcoming everyone from elite racers chasing course records to families discovering the joy of off-road adventure.

Since 2007, the Odyssey has built its reputation as "brutal... but unforgettable," attracting over 2,000 riders annually to tackle courses that showcase Australia's finest single track and gravel roads. The 2026 edition introduces an exciting new format with all mountain bike races on Saturday and gravel events on Sunday, making it easier than ever to "do the double" and experience both disciplines.

New to This? The Otway Odyssey caters to all abilities with courses ranging from family-friendly 10km rides to epic 106km challenges. First-time mountain bikers can build confidence on the 30km course, while the gravel events offer a more accessible introduction to off-road racing with timed sections and social timeout zones.

Date: Saturday 28 February – Sunday 1 March 2026

Location: Forrest Recreation Reserve, Forrest, Victoria

Start Times: From 7:00 AM (detailed times released closer to event)

Event Type: Multi-day mountain bike and gravel cycling festival

Distance Options:

Saturday - Mountain Bike Racing:

  • 100km Epic (1,800m+ elevation)
  • 75km Challenge (NEW course)
  • 50km Adventure (NEW course)
  • 30km Explorer
  • 10km Pioneer (family-friendly)
  • Adaptive MTB

Sunday - Gravel Racing:

  • 106km Great Otway Gravel Grind (NEW course)
  • 49km Gravel Discovery
  • 30km Rookie: Ideal entry-level experience
  • 10km Pioneer: Youth and beginner-friendly

Mountain Bike Courses (Saturday)

The legendary 100km course delivers the ultimate test through the Otway Ranges' pristine single track. Riders tackle three demanding loops featuring iconic trails like Super Loop, Grasstrees, and Marriners Run, with the brutal Focus Loop saving its steepest climbs for when legs are screaming. The 500-metre ascent up Thompsons Track at the 75km mark has become legendary among Australian mountain bikers.

75km and 50km courses feature completely redesigned routes showcasing new trail sections while maintaining the Odyssey's signature challenge through towering mountain ash forests and fern gullies.

Gravel Courses (Sunday)

The 106km Great Otway Gravel Grind, part of the Gran Fondo World Tour since 2023, explores the region's stunning gravel roads through a unique rally format. Timed sections test your racing legs while timeout zones in charming townships let you regroup with mates over coffee – the perfect balance of competition and camaraderie.

  • Early Bird Pricing (Until 1 December 2025):

Single Events:

  • 100km MTB: $214
  • 75km MTB: $197
  • 50km MTB: $179
  • 30km MTB: $118
  • 10km MTB: $38 (plus $13 for adult companion)
  • Adaptive MTB: $54
  • 106km Gravel: $197
  • 49km Gravel: $144
  • Groms (Kids): $13

Multi-Event Special (40% off second event):

  • King/Queen of the Otways (100km MTB + 106km Gravel): $332
  • Titans of the Trails (100km MTB + 50km MTB): $321
  • Gravel God/Goddess (49km + 106km Gravel): $283

Under 18 participants receive 20% off all entry prices

Standard Pricing: 2 December 2025 – 16 February 2026 (add $21-24) Late Entry: 17 February – 1 March 2026 (add $45+ to early bird)

Registration Includes:

  • 20th Anniversary Gift: First 1,000 entrants receive commemorative multitool
  • Professional timing and results
  • Race plate with timing chip
  • Course marking and marshalling
  • Medical support throughout
  • Access to feed stations and CLIF Fuel Stations
  • Post-race refreshments
  • Complimentary soft drink for finishers

Mountain Bike Events:

  • Multiple feed stations stocked with CLIF nutrition
  • Professional course marking through single track
  • Medical teams at key locations
  • Technical support available
  • Comprehensive safety briefings

Gravel Events:

  • Feed stations in scenic timeout zones
  • Rally-style format with timed and untimed sections
  • Coffee stops in historic townships
  • Photography opportunities at scenic viewpoints

  • Event Organiser: Rapid Ascent
    Email: info@rapidascent.com.au
  • Phone: 03 5261 5511
  • Website: otwayodyssey.rapidascent.com.au
  • Facebook: /rapidascentevents
  • Instagram: @rapidascent

By Car

  • From Melbourne: 2.5 hours via M1 and C151 through Colac (195km)
  • From Geelong: 1.5 hours via C151 through Birregurra (95km)
  • From Ballarat: 2 hours via C141 through Cressy (160km)

Free parking available at Forrest Football Ground and designated overflow areas.

By Train & Bus

  • V/Line services to Birregurra Station from Melbourne Southern Cross
  • Limited connecting buses from Birregurra to Forrest
  • Pre-book transport as services are limited
  • Check V/Line website for current timetables

Closest Airports

  • Avalon Airport (AVV): 1.5 hours drive
  • Melbourne Airport (MEL): 2.5 hours drive

Make it a complete weekend by exploring the region's highlights before and after your race. Accommodation books out quickly during event weekend - early reservations are essential.

Forrest Must-Dos

  • Forrest Brewing Company
  • Event hub and local institution
  • Craft beers and excellent pub meals
  • Perfect for post-ride recovery
  • West Barwon Dam
  • Scenic walking trails
  • Photography opportunities
  • Picnic facilities

Food & Drink

Nearby Destinations

  • Great Otway National Park
  • Ancient rainforest walks
  • Waterfall circuits
  • Wildlife spotting
  • Otway Harvest Trail
  • Local produce
  • Craft breweries
  • Scenic drives
  • Apollo Bay (45 minutes)
  • Coastal views
  • Fresh seafood
  • Great Ocean Road access

Recovery Activities

  • Stevenson Falls
  • Easy walking track
  • Picturesque waterfall
  • Cool forest environment
  • Forrest Lagoon
  • Swimming spot
  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Perfect for families

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