4.5
(154)
1,258
riders
100
rides
Mountain biking around Embsay With Eastby offers diverse terrain within the North Yorkshire landscape. The region features a mix of challenging climbs and rewarding descents over rocky outcrops and moorland, particularly around Embsay Crag and Barden Moor. Riders can explore trails encircling Embsay Reservoir, which provide options for various skill levels, from easy loops to more technical routes. The area's proximity to the Yorkshire Dales National Park provides a backdrop of varied natural features and expansive views.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(2)
17
riders
101km
07:53
1,920m
1,920m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(3)
17
riders
24.4km
01:26
110m
110m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
9
riders
23.4km
01:56
500m
500m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
31
riders
52.6km
03:51
450m
450m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.0
(2)
8
riders
13.0km
01:01
220m
220m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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super woodland singletrack section before a big climb.
0
0
boat trips, cafes and pubs oh and car parking
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0
Such a lovely tribute to those who lost their lives. We always here to pay our respects
0
0
a must see. marvel of engineering and or industrial past
1
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There are over 100 mountain bike trails around Embsay With Eastby. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 24 easy, 73 moderate, and 4 difficult options available for exploration.
You can expect a diverse range of terrain, from easy loops around Embsay Reservoir to challenging climbs and descents over rocky outcrops and moorland, particularly around Embsay Crag. Trails often feature stony double tracks, fast singletrack, and loamy sections, offering a true Yorkshire Dales mountain biking experience.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Easy routes, such as the Higherland Lock – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Skipton, offer gentler rides along the canal. Additionally, the Embsay Pump Track at Embsay With Eastby Recreation Ground provides a fun, compact tarmac-surfaced track suitable for all skill levels, including young children.
For a challenging experience, consider routes that venture towards Embsay Crag, known for its technical climbs and rewarding descents. A difficult option is the Skyreholme Bank Gravel Climb – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Skipton, which covers over 100 km with significant elevation gain.
The trails offer access to stunning natural features. You can enjoy panoramic views from Embsay Crag and explore the scenic Embsay Reservoir. Further afield, you might encounter dramatic landscapes like Gordale Scar Waterfall or the beautiful Janet's Foss waterfall, depending on your chosen route.
Many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal – Bingley Five Rise Locks loop from Skipton offers a moderate circular ride through canal-side landscapes, while the Moor Lane – Moor Lane loop from Skipton provides a moderate option with significant elevation.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging crag descents to open moorland sections, and the variety of options suitable for different ability levels.
Yes, a free car park at Embsay Reservoir serves as a convenient base for exploring many of the trails, particularly those around Embsay Crag and the reservoir itself.
While many trails in the Yorkshire Dales are dog-friendly, it's important to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage and respect the countryside code. Some routes, particularly those on open moorland, may be less suitable for off-lead dogs.
Absolutely. Beginners can enjoy easier routes like the Bolton Abbey Woods Descent – Bolton Priory Ruins loop from Halton East, which offers a gentler ride. The trails encircling Embsay Reservoir also provide various easy loops suitable for those new to mountain biking.
Embsay With Eastby and nearby Skipton offer a selection of pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your ride. The village itself has local establishments, and Skipton, being a larger town, provides more extensive options for food and drink.
Generally, you do not need a permit for mountain biking on public bridleways and byways within Embsay With Eastby or the Yorkshire Dales National Park. However, always stick to designated rights of way and respect private land. There are no specific permits required for general mountain biking access in this area.


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