The best MTB trails around Wistlandpound Reservoir

There are 14 mountain bike trails available around Wistlandpound Reservoir, offering a variety of experiences from moderate to difficult. The area provides a diverse range of routes set within a tranquil natural environment on the edge of Exmoor National Park.

While the komoot guide primarily features moderate to difficult trails, the immediate area around Wistlandpound Reservoir offers accessible, mostly flat paths. The main circular trail around the reservoir is approximately 1.5 miles and is suitable for gentle rides and families, including those with pushchairs. These paths wind through tranquil lakeside areas and woodlands.

The mountain biking trails in the Wistlandpound Reservoir area range from moderate to difficult. Out of the 14 routes listed, 13 are rated as moderate, and one is considered difficult. These trails often incorporate natural features like roots and rocks, providing an engaging experience.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the area offers longer and more demanding routes. An example is the Valley of Rocks – View over Lynmouth Beach loop from Martinhoe, which spans 44.7 km with significant elevation changes, requiring good fitness and advanced riding skills.

You can expect diverse and beautiful scenery. Trails wind through tranquil lakeside paths, deep alpine green spruce plantations, and mixed woodlands. In autumn, the oak and beech canopies display vibrant amber and copper hues. The area is also a nature reserve, offering glimpses of wildlife and views over the surrounding Exmoor landscape.

Yes, many of the routes in the Wistlandpound Reservoir area are circular. For instance, the Challacombe Doubletrack Trail – Wood Barrow loop from Lynton and Lynmouth is a moderate 24.9 km circular route that takes you through varied terrain.

The mountain bike trails around Wistlandpound Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the tranquil woodlands, varied terrain, and the natural beauty of the Exmoor National Park edge.

Yes, Wistlandpound Reservoir is an established nature reserve and a haven for wildlife. You might spot wildfowl and wading birds, buzzards, goshawks, and various mammals. The area is also rich in wildflowers like orchids and rosebay willowherb, adding to the natural experience.

When water levels are low at Wistlandpound Reservoir, you can sometimes glimpse remnants of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway, which once ran through the valley before the reservoir's construction. This offers a unique historical insight into the area.

For additional information about Wistlandpound Reservoir, including facilities and general visitor information, you can visit the official pages for the area: Visit Exmoor or Visit Lynton & Lynmouth.

The Wistlandpound Reservoir area offers beautiful scenery year-round. Autumn is particularly stunning when the oak and beech canopies display vibrant amber and copper hues. However, trails can be enjoyed in all seasons, with spring bringing wildflowers and summer offering lush greenery.