The ultimate challenge for road cycling and mountain bike enthusiasts.
The Audax Hotham Challenge, scheduled for 10 March 2013, has been cancelled. VicRoads are working on damage to the Great Alpine Road between Harrietville and Hotham following bushfires, heavy rain and landslips in the area. All entrants to the event will receive a full refund. For the latest information, stay tuned to www.hothamchallenge.com.au.
Experience the thrill and challenge of riding the Great Alpine Road in a fully supported environment at the Audax Hotham Challenge.
The Hotham Challenge Ride (formerly DP Festival of Cycling) has recently become the Audax Hotham Challenge - a cycling event based out of the picturesque village of Dinner Plain in North East Victoria. The event offers a unique opportunity for road cyclists to challenge themselves to descend and climb the Great Alpine Road, including the renowned Hotham Summit, in a fully supported environment. All aspects of the weekend are personalised to ensure you can achieve your personal best on your bike.
During the festival in 2012 riders learnt how to tackle alpine riding with a Ridewiser coaching clinic, gained tips at the mechanical workshop, and pushed their personal limits on the Hotham Challenge Ride. Topped off with great socialising it's the perfect weekend of cycling, food, wine and friends.
New in 2012 was the introduction of the epic 208km Dinner Plain - Mt Buffalo return ride. This ride is 100km longer and 1045 metres higher than the Dinner Plain - Bright return ride. Not for the faint hearted!
Please note, cycling on the Great Alpine Road can be dangerous due to cattle & logging trucks, caravans, boats etc. using the road. Always keep to the left and be aware what is around you at all times.
Mountain biking around Hotham is one of the best ways to see it. There are a lot of trails, 4WD tracks and fire trails that wind through the Alpine flora and forests. The winter cross country ski trails are a great place to start, including the Hotham to Dinner Plain trail. You can pick up a cross country trail map from Mt Hotham Resort Management Board office during office hours. You can hire bikes and helmets from Adventures with Altitude in Dinner Plain by calling (03) 5159 6608 or in the valley at Bright Cyclepath.
Hotham to Dinner Plain
Distance - 16.1km
Information - Elevation drop from Hotham Heights to Dinner Plain is approx. 263m some undulating hills, easy to moderate riding.
Hotham to Harrietville
Distance - 28.0km
Information – Elevation drop from Hotham to Harrietville is approx. 1273m. There are steep downhills and difficult sections, which become long, tough climbs in the other direction. Excellent for advanced riders.
Hotham to Bright
Distance - 52.2km
Information – same as above, with an extra 25km from Harrietville to Bright, a couple of easy hills and enjoyable riding along the Great Alpine Road.
Hotham to Omeo
Distance - 54.2km
Information – The elevation from Hotham to Omeo drops approx. 1098m mostly downhill from Dinner Plain onwards. On the return journey the steep hill ‘Mountain Maid’ is difficult but rewarding.
