4.5
(18)
180
riders
22
rides
Mountain biking around Great Clifton offers routes through a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and proximity to several lakes. The terrain includes varied surfaces, from lakeside paths to forest trails, providing diverse riding experiences. Elevation changes are present across the region, with some routes featuring significant climbs. This area is suitable for mountain bikers seeking natural trails with scenic views.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
18
riders
37.3km
02:55
520m
520m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
21
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(3)
14
riders
32.1km
02:47
690m
690m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(2)
20
riders
64.1km
04:24
1,100m
1,100m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(2)
18
riders
26.3km
02:12
550m
550m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Amazing scenery of the lake and fells, good place for photos
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The view from this location is fantastic. Elevated and widespread views into the valleys and mountains. There is a seated bench allowing for a rest & hydrate
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Approaching this mountain it makes you stop and admire the steep contour and shape. I said to myself "it is like a giant mole hill". Stunning to see.
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The views are a bit special at this location. Panoramic and widespread, the contour of the mountains can be seen in all directions
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Early morning November 18th, cold and minus 3 degrees. Pardshaw seemed like a safe place to park the car, there were a few people going about, it is just a small village. You get good views as you approach the start of the mountains from Pardshaw
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There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Great Clifton listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences from easy rides to challenging routes. The area features rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic lakeside paths.
The mountain bike trails around Great Clifton cater to various skill levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 11 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced riders. The terrain includes varied surfaces and elevation changes.
Yes, Great Clifton offers several easy mountain bike trails suitable for families. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and elevation, allowing for a more relaxed ride. Look for routes marked as 'easy' on komoot for suitable options.
For advanced riders, Great Clifton has 7 difficult mountain bike routes. One challenging option is the Loweswater – Loweswater loop from Pardshaw Hall, which covers 20.0 miles (32.2 km) with significant elevation changes. Another demanding route is the View of Derwent Water – Loweswater loop from Lamplugh, spanning 64.0 km with over 1000 meters of ascent.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Great Clifton are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Pillar – Ennerdale Water Lakeside Path loop from Lamplugh and the Cyclewise Whinlatter Bike Shop – Gruffalo Viewpoint loop from Cockermouth.
The mountain bike trails around Great Clifton offer diverse and scenic views. You'll ride through rolling hills, dense woodlands, and along the shores of several lakes like Ennerdale Water and Loweswater. Many routes provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding Lake District landscape.
Yes, the area boasts several natural attractions and viewpoints. You might encounter highlights such as Slate Fell or the View of the Lake District from Watch Hill Ascent. For those interested in waterfalls, Holme Force is also nearby.
The mountain bike trails around Great Clifton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from nearly 20 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, scenic views, and the natural feel of the trails through woodlands and along lakesides.
While mountain biking is possible year-round, spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, and shorter daylight hours.
To find less crowded trails, consider exploring some of the more challenging or longer routes, or venturing out during off-peak times. Routes like the Kirkgill Wood – Crofthill Wood loop from Pardshaw might offer a quieter experience compared to the more popular lakeside paths.
The terrain around Great Clifton is diverse, ranging from smooth lakeside paths to more rugged forest trails. You'll encounter rolling hills, some significant climbs, and varied surfaces that provide a dynamic riding experience suitable for mountain bikes.


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