The best MTB trails around Somerset

Somerset offers a good selection of mountain biking opportunities, with over 20 routes currently available on komoot. These trails cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The best seasons for mountain biking in Somerset are generally spring and autumn. During these times, you can expect milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more enjoyable experience on the trails.

Somerset's diverse landscape provides a wide range of terrain. You'll find rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and expansive moors. Specific areas like the Mendip Hills feature limestone ridges and dramatic gorges, while Exmoor National Park and the Quantock Hills offer extensive networks through heathland and oak woodlands. This variety ensures engaging and dynamic experiences for all abilities.

Yes, Somerset has trails suitable for various skill levels. Out of the available routes, 11 are classified as easy, making them ideal for beginners or families looking for a more relaxed ride. These trails often follow riverside paths or wind through dense forests, offering scenic and manageable experiences.

Key areas for mountain biking in Somerset include Exmoor National Park, known for its wild moorland and dramatic coastal views; the Quantock Hills, England's first AONB, offering natural singletrack; and the Mendip Hills, another AONB characterized by limestone ridges and gorges like Cheddar Gorge. Each area provides distinct riding experiences.

The mountain biking routes in Somerset are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.76 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain and the beautiful natural surroundings found across the region's varied landscapes.

Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, Somerset offers a selection of difficult and moderate trails. There are 2 difficult routes and 11 moderate routes available, providing opportunities for technical descents and more demanding ascents, particularly in areas like the Quantock Hills and Mendip Hills.

Absolutely. Somerset is renowned for its scenic beauty. Areas like Exmoor National Park offer breathtaking coastal views and expansive moorland vistas. The Quantock Hills provide extensive views over heathland and ancient parklands, while the Mendip Hills feature spectacular dry valleys and impressive rocky outcrops, all offering picturesque backdrops for your ride.

Somerset's natural features are a highlight for mountain bikers. You can explore the dramatic gorges of the Mendip Hills, the ancient woodlands of Exmoor (such as Horner Wood), and the expansive heather moorlands of both Exmoor and the Quantock Hills. The region's varied topography includes rolling hills, steep combes, and limestone ridges, providing a rich natural environment.

While enjoying the mountain bike trails, you can also explore various attractions nearby. For instance, the area around Cheddar Gorge offers awe-inspiring cliffs and subterranean show caves. You might also encounter historical monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial or the World War II Memorial, and natural highlights like Rock Creek Park.

Many of the mountain bike trails in Somerset are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This is convenient for parking and exploring the diverse landscapes without needing to arrange transport back to your starting location.

For those looking for a longer ride, the region offers routes such as the 'Dalecarlia Tunnel – Pennyfield Lock loop from Bethesda', which spans approximately 95 km (59 miles) and is classified as difficult. Another option is the 'Little Falls Dam – Fishing Shore Beach loop from Congressional Country Club', a moderate route covering about 39 km (24 miles).