The best MTB trails around Burnmoor Tarn

There are over 18 mountain bike routes available around Burnmoor Tarn, offering a variety of experiences through the Lake District's fells, tarns, and valleys.

The trails around Burnmoor Tarn cater to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for most riders.

Yes, there are 3 easy-rated mountain bike trails in the area suitable for beginners. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and elevation changes.

For experienced mountain bikers seeking a challenge, there is at least one difficult-rated route, such as the Sprinkling Tarn – Great Langdale loop from Wasdale. This 24.7-mile trail involves significant elevation gain through high fells.

Mountain bike routes around Burnmoor Tarn vary in length and duration. For example, the View of Wast Water – Wast Water loop from Wasdale is 12.2 miles (19.7 km) and takes about 1 hour 10 minutes, while the Wast Water Scenic Road – Burnmoor Tarn loop from Wasdale is 16.0 miles (25.8 km) and typically takes around 2 hours 24 minutes.

Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Wast Water Scenic Road – Burnmoor Tarn loop from Wasdale and the Eskdale Mill – Brat's Hill Stone Circle loop from Boot.

The best season for mountain biking around Burnmoor Tarn is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and trail conditions are more favorable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the Lake District.

Winter mountain biking is possible but requires careful planning and appropriate gear due to potentially harsh weather, shorter daylight hours, and challenging trail conditions, including ice and snow. Some trails may become impassable or significantly more difficult.

The mountain bike trails around Burnmoor Tarn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 16 reviews. Riders often praise the stunning views of Wast Water and the surrounding fells, as well as the varied terrain.

While popular routes like the Wast Water loops can see more traffic, exploring some of the less-traveled paths or visiting during off-peak times (weekdays, early mornings) can offer a quieter experience. Routes further into the fells, such as the Ravenglass Seafront – Quiet Lanes from Ravenglass loop from Eskdale, might also offer more solitude.

The Burnmoor Tarn area, being part of the remote Wasdale Valley, has limited facilities. However, you can find pubs and cafes in nearby villages like Wasdale Head or Boot in Eskdale, which are often popular stops for cyclists and hikers.

Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Burnmoor Tarn are very limited due to its remote location in the Lake District. Access is primarily by car, with parking available at various points in Wasdale or Eskdale. Some seasonal bus services might operate to nearby valleys, but direct access to trailheads often requires a car or a longer cycle approach.