Investment in mountain biking tourism is an investment in Tasmania’s regions.
The Mountain Biking Network Tasmania (MTB-N), funded by the Tasmanian Government, commissioned episteme to measure the economic value of mountain biking tourism to the state. This was the first recommendation of its Mountain Bike Tourism Action Plan 2024. Dr Allison Anderson and environmental economist Tim Harmsen combined state visitor data with a survey of 321 riders and interviews with operators and trail managers. We also benchmarked Tasmania against leading destinations in Australia and overseas.
In the year to March 2025, mountain biking tourism attracted $113 million in direct spending. It contributed $61 million to Gross State Product and supported around 590 jobs, mostly in regional areas. Mountain bike visitors spend 26% more than other holiday visitors, and with targeted investment their contribution could grow to more than $200 million a year within a decade.
The report’s recommendations fall under two headings, “defend” and “elevate”. They cover expanding and maintaining iconic trail networks, better marketing, attracting international events, and growing Tasmania as a connected adventure tourism destination.