FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We're here to help you plan your next mountain bike adventure whether its a half day of shuttles or a 5 day tour of Tropical North Queensland. If you can't find the answer to any questions you have please feel free to reach out via the details on the contacts page.

About MADMTB Atherton

What is MADMTB Atherton?

MADMTB Atherton provides premium mountain bike shuttles, private group experiences and transport services on the beautiful Atherton Tablelands in Tropical North Queensland.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a local chasing more downhill runs, we make it easier to enjoy the region’s outstanding mountain bike trails.

Where do you operate?

Our regular shuttle services operate at Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park, near Atherton in Far North Queensland.

We can also assist with private group transport, airport transfers and customised mountain biking experiences by arrangement.

Mountain Bike Shuttles

What is a mountain bike shuttle?

A shuttle transports you and your mountain bike to the top of the trails so you can enjoy more downhill riding without having to pedal back up after every run.

How long is a shuttle session?

Our regular shuttle sessions run for approximately three hours:

  • Morning session: 9 am to 12 pm.
  • Afternoon session: 1 pm to 4 pm.

Available dates and session times are shown when you book online.

Can I book a full day?

Yes. Book both a morning and afternoon session to enjoy a full day of riding, with a break between sessions.

How many runs will I get?

The number of runs depends on the trails you choose, riding conditions, group size and how quickly riders return to the shuttle pickup point. Most customers complete 5 or 6 runs in a session.

Our aim is to give everyone plenty of quality riding time during their session.

Where do I meet the shuttle?

Meeting point details will be provided in your booking confirmation.

If you’re unfamiliar with Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park, contact us before your session and we’ll help you find the right location.

What time should I arrive?

Please arrive approximately 15 minutes before your session so there is time to check in, load your bike and be ready to depart.

What happens if I arrive late?

Our shuttle sessions run on a schedule, so late arrivals may miss part of their booked session. Please contact us as soon as possible if you’re running behind.

Airport Transfers and Mountain Bike Tours

Do you offer Cairns Airport transfers?

Airport transfers between Cairns and the Atherton Tablelands may be available by arrangement, including transport for riders, bikes and luggage.

Contact us with your travel dates, flight details, group size and bike transport requirements for a quote.

Can you transport mountain bikes and luggage?

Yes. We can discuss transport arrangements for riders, mountain bikes and luggage, depending on your group size and the equipment required.

Please provide details when requesting a quote.

Do you offer multi-day mountain bike experiences?

We’re developing customised mountain biking experiences that showcase Atherton and the wider Tropical North Queensland region.

These experiences may include airport transfers, shuttle sessions, trail transport and assistance coordinating accommodation, bike hire and other arrangements.

Contact us to discuss your group, preferred dates and the type of experience you have in mind.

Can you help organise accommodation or bike hire?

We can assist with local recommendations or coordinate arrangements as part of a customised group experience.

Availability, pricing and arrangements will depend on your requirements and the relevant local providers.

Bikes, Equipment and Riding Ability

Do I need to bring my own mountain bike?

Yes. Riders should bring a suitable, well-maintained mountain bike unless alternative arrangements have been confirmed with us in advance.

Can I bring an e-mountain bike?

E-mountain bikes may be accommodated, subject to available space and safe transport requirements. Please contact us before booking so we can confirm your bike is suitable for the shuttle.

What equipment do I need?

You’ll need:

  • A suitable mountain bike in safe working condition.
  • A properly fitted helmet.
  • Water and appropriate riding clothing.
  • Basic tools, a spare tube or puncture repair supplies.
  • Any additional protective equipment you prefer, such as gloves, knee/elbow pads, body armour a full-face helmet.

Do I need to be an experienced mountain biker?

Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park has trails suited to different ability levels. However, riders must choose trails appropriate to their experience and ride within their limits.

The shuttle service provides access to the intermediate trails in the park. Intermediate trails are suited to experienced riders ie they are steep and fast, have berms, jumps, step-ups/downs and difficult alternate lines.

If you’re unsure whether a shuttle session suits you, contact us before booking.

Are the trails guided?

Regular shuttle sessions provide transport to the trails rather than guided instruction. Riders are responsible for selecting suitable trails and riding safely.

Private experiences and customised arrangements can be discussed separately.

Can children ride?

Younger riders may be able to participate, depending on their age, ability and supervision arrangements. Please contact us before booking to discuss what is suitable.

Bookings and Payments

How do I book?

The easiest way to book is through our online booking system. Select your preferred date and session, enter your details and follow the prompts to complete your booking.

Can I book for a group?

Yes. We welcome private groups, visiting riders, clubs and other organised groups.

Contact us to discuss group size, preferred dates, transport requirements and private booking options.

Can I book a private shuttle session?

Yes. Private shuttle sessions may be available by arrangement, subject to availability.

Contact us with your preferred date, group size and any special requirements for a personalised quote.

How much does a shuttle session cost?

Current prices are displayed in our online booking system.

Private sessions, group bookings, airport transfers and customised experiences are quoted separately.

Will I receive a booking confirmation?

Yes. After your booking is completed, you should receive a confirmation email containing your booking details.

If you can’t find it, check your junk or spam folder before contacting us.

Can I change or cancel my booking?

Booking changes and cancellations are subject to our booking terms and conditions.

Please contact us as early as possible if your plans change so we can discuss available options.

Weather and Trail Conditions

What happens if it rains?

Riding conditions can change quickly on the Atherton Tablelands, particularly during the wet season.

Shuttles may be cancelled, postponed or adjusted if conditions are unsafe or if trails are closed. If your booking is affected, we’ll contact you to discuss the available options.

Do you operate year-round?

Our peak mountain bike season is during the cooler, drier winter months i.e. May to September, March and April are possible on request but dependent on the wet season and October is available on request dependent on the onset of summer and storms.  However, availability depends on weather, trail conditions, seasonal demand and other operational requirements.

Check our online booking calendar for current availability or contact us to discuss specific dates.

How can I check trail conditions?

Trail conditions and closures are published on the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park Facebook page, QPWS Park Alerts and Trailforks.

If you’re travelling specifically to ride, check these pages/websites and contact us before your visit for the latest available information.

Safety and Other Questions

What happens if my bike has a mechanical problem?

Riders are responsible for ensuring their bikes are in safe working condition before their session.

We recommend carrying basic tools and spares. If a problem occurs during your session, let your driver know as soon as possible.

Is mountain biking dangerous?

Mountain biking involves inherent risks, and riders are responsible for riding within their abilities, following trail signage and using appropriate safety equipment.

If you’re unsure about trail difficulty or suitability, please ask before riding.

I still have a question. How can I contact you?

We’re happy to help with shuttle bookings, private groups, airport transfers or customised mountain biking experiences.

Contact MADMTB Atherton through our website, social media or the details listed on our contacts page.

Ready to ride? Book your next Atherton mountain bike adventure today.