The best MTB trails around Bowland Forest High

There are over 30 mountain bike trails recorded in Bowland Forest High on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. This includes 12 easy routes, 18 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route.

Yes, Bowland Forest High offers several easy and family-friendly mountain bike trails. A great option is The 8 – Swoopy Section – Hope Line Trailhead loop from Easington, which features flowing sections through woodland suitable for various skill levels. Another easy route is Trail 8, Forest of Bowland – The 8 Trail, Gisburn Forest loop from Easington, which is just under 10 km long.

The best time for mountain biking in Bowland Forest High is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder and the trails are drier. However, conditions can vary, so it's always advisable to check the local weather forecast before heading out, especially as some trails can become muddy after heavy rain.

While the majority of trails are easy to moderate, there is at least one difficult mountain bike route recorded in Bowland Forest High. Riders seeking more challenging terrain should look for routes with significant elevation gain and technical features. Always check the route details and difficulty grading on komoot before attempting a trail.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Bowland Forest High are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, Gisburn Forest: The 8 is a popular circular trail featuring well-maintained forest paths. Another option is the Hodder Bridge – Trough of Bowland Viewpoint loop from Dunsop Bridge, which takes you through river valleys and open moorland.

Mountain biking in Bowland Forest High offers varied terrain, including extensive forests, open moorland, and river valleys. Riders can expect a mix of forest tracks, bridleways, and purpose-built trails. The region's topography includes rolling hills and elevated sections, providing diverse route profiles from flowing woodland sections to more challenging climbs.

The Bowland Forest High area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can find several reservoirs, such as Abbeystead Reservoir Dam and Stocks Reservoir and Lost Village of Stocks-in-Bowland. There are also notable summits and viewpoints like Clougha Pike and Nicky Nook Summit, offering panoramic views of the landscape.

The trails in Bowland Forest High are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 180 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, the well-maintained forest paths, and the beautiful natural scenery of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The mix of easy and moderate routes also makes it appealing to a wide range of riders.

Yes, particularly around popular trailheads like Gisburn Forest and villages such as Dunsop Bridge and Easington, you can often find cafes and pubs. These establishments provide opportunities for refreshments and meals before or after your ride. For example, Stocks Reservoir has a cafe nearby.

Public transport options to access Gisburn Forest and other remote parts of Bowland Forest High can be limited. It is advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, as services may be infrequent, especially on weekends. Many riders choose to drive to trailheads, where parking facilities are often available.

When mountain biking in Bowland Forest High, it's essential to bring appropriate gear. This includes a well-maintained mountain bike, a helmet, suitable clothing for varying weather conditions (layers are recommended), water, snacks, a repair kit, and a first-aid kit. Given the varied terrain and potential for remote sections, a fully charged phone and a navigation device like komoot are also highly recommended.