The Gauntlet Trail Guide: Technical Granite Slabs at Mt Tumbarumba

Starting right from the Trig summit node at Mt Tumbarumba MTB Park, The Gauntlet is a raw, technical Black Diamond line that delivers a serious test of line choice, bike control, and high-speed confidence. Dropping 70 metres of vertical elevation over 568 metres, it mixes steep natural terrain with massive granite rock features and some of the best high-country views in the network.

The trail wastes no time establishing its character. Dropping off the top ridge, the line immediately introduces tight, off-camber singletrack littered with loose granite grit and natural rock step-downs. Unlike machine-built flow trails, line selection here requires active sightlines to avoid getting hung up on square-edge hits.

The standout feature of the run is the iconic open granite slab section. Rolling out onto massive, bare rock faces, riders are treated to sweeping vistas across the valley before leaning into steep, high-friction roll-ins. High traction on the dry granite allows you to carry significant speed, but smooth braking and weight transfer are essential as the slab transitions quickly back into tight timber chutes and technical rock gardens.

A mid-to-long travel trail or enduro bike (150mm+ travel) is ideal for cushioning the square-edged rock compressions. Keep your eyes up when breaking out onto the open granite slabs to set up your entry line into the lower timber chutes smoothly.

The Gauntlet on Trailforks.com