Are the Manly Dam mountain biking trails open today?

Live trail status is published at the top of this page and updated automatically from Northern Beaches Council. The trails are usually open, but close after heavy rain to protect the surface.

Where do I park to ride Manly Dam?

The best parking is at the Manly Hydraulics Laboratory on King Street, Manly Vale, which is the most common spot to start the loop. Seaforth Bowling Club (Wakehurst Parkway, Seaforth) is another option, especially for accessing the southern side of the loop.

Which direction do I ride the loop?

The Manly Dam Official Short Loop is signposted to be ridden clockwise. The trail is shared with walkers and runners, so give way and ride within your skill level.

Is Manly Dam beginner-friendly?

Yes. The Official Short Loop (~10 km) is rated cross-country and is accessible for confident beginners on a mountain bike. There are short technical sections on rock and roots; walk anything that feels above your level.

When is the next volunteer day?

The MD MTB Trail Crew runs a volunteer trail-build day on the third Sunday of every month. Details and meeting points are posted in the Facebook group.

Manly Dam MTB Trail Crew

Manly Dam Mountain Biking Trails

Status of the mountain biking trails is updated by users on Trailforks, and formally by Northern Beaches Council. Please respect the trail closure notices.

7-Day Forecast

Local forecast for Manly Dam. Wet trails close to protect the surface, so check this and the live status before you ride.

Trail Map

Recent Trail Reports

Live trail reports from riders across the Manly Dam region, sourced from Trailforks. A good way to spot fresh closures, mud, or recent maintenance.

Manly Dam Official Short Loop (~10 km XC)

The signposted Manly Dam loop. About 10 km of cross-country single-track around the dam, rated intermediate, and the most popular ride at Manly Dam. Ridden clockwise, with short technical sections on rock and roots.

Manly Dam & Possums (Extended XC Loop)

A longer ride that links the Manly Dam loop with the Possums tracks in Garigal National Park, adding climbing, fast descents, and quieter trails. Best for fit riders comfortable on intermediate cross-country terrain.

Bantry Bay & Possums (Garigal National Park)

Bantry Bay extends the Possums network into the heart of Garigal National Park. Expect bigger climbs, exposed sandstone, and longer, quieter cross-country single-track. A favourite for half-day rides starting from Manly Dam.

Latest Trailforks Photos at Manly Dam

Frequently Asked

Are the Manly Dam mountain biking trails open today?: Live trail status is published at the top of this page and updated automatically from Northern Beaches Council. The trails are usually open, but close after heavy rain to protect the surface.
Where do I park to ride Manly Dam?: The best parking is at the Manly Hydraulics Laboratory on King Street, Manly Vale, which is the most common spot to start the loop. Seaforth Bowling Club (Wakehurst Parkway, Seaforth) is another option, especially for accessing the southern side of the loop.
Which direction do I ride the loop?: The Manly Dam Official Short Loop is signposted to be ridden clockwise. The trail is shared with walkers and runners, so give way and ride within your skill level.
Is Manly Dam beginner-friendly?: Yes. The Official Short Loop (~10 km) is rated cross-country and is accessible for confident beginners on a mountain bike. There are short technical sections on rock and roots; walk anything that feels above your level.
When is the next volunteer day?: The MD MTB Trail Crew runs a volunteer trail-build day on the third Sunday of every month. Details and meeting points are posted in the Facebook group.

About the Crew

Manly Dam MTB Trail Crew is a volunteer group run by Trail Care, with the support of Northern Beaches Council. We look after the official Manly Dam trails, along with nearby tracks like those in Garigal National Park. If you love mountain biking and want to give back to the community, come and join us.

Trail Care is a not-for-profit association that supports mountain biking projects across Australia. They bring together expert trail builders, designers, and consultants who volunteer their time to deliver meaningful outcomes for mountain bikers and land managers, including running volunteer maintenance programs for clients like Northern Beaches Council and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

When volunteering: Manly Dam MTB Crew is a volunteer group dedicated to maintaining and improving local MTB trails. While we strive to ensure a safe environment, participation in volunteer activities is entirely at your own risk. Please take necessary precautions and follow safety instructions during trail maintenance work.

When riding: at Manly Dam and the surrounding MTB trails, always ride responsibly and within your skill level. This website provides basic information about the Manly Dam MTB trails, but riders are responsible for doing their own research and preparation. Ride within your skill level. Follow local trail guidelines, respect other trail users, and be aware of changing conditions. Proper safety gear, including helmets, is essential for your protection.