The best gravel rides around Lawkland

There are over 20 gravel bike trails in the Lawkland area, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes extensively, with over 160 gravel bikers using komoot to discover the local terrain.

Yes, Lawkland offers beginner-friendly options. A great choice is the Stocks Reservoir and Gisburn Forest loop — Forest of Bowland. This easy 6.7-mile (10.8 km) trail takes about 1 hour to complete and features varied forest and reservoir landscapes, perfect for those new to gravel biking.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Malham Tarn – Settle Town Centre loop from Settle is a difficult 16.2-mile (26.1 km) route with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Long Lane Descent – View of Moughton and Austwick loop from Clapham, which covers nearly 18.6 miles (29.9 km) with challenging climbs and descents.

Many of the gravel bike trails in Lawkland are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Stocks Reservoir and Gisburn Forest loop is a great circular option, as is the View of Pen-y-ghent – Settle Town Centre loop from Settle.

Gravel biking around Lawkland offers diverse and scenic landscapes. You'll encounter rolling hills, open moorland, and dense forest sections. Many routes provide views of local reservoirs and prominent features like Pen-y-ghent, combining natural beauty with varied terrain.

Yes, the Lawkland area is rich in natural attractions. While specific routes aren't listed as passing directly by them, you can explore highlights such as Thornton Force waterfall, Catrigg Force Waterfall, and Stainforth Force waterfall, which are all within the wider region and can be incorporated into your rides or visited separately.

The gravel bike trails in Lawkland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, which includes a mix of well-maintained gravel tracks, quiet country lanes, and some more rugged paths, as well as the scenic views of reservoirs and local hills.

For families, the easier routes are generally best. The Stocks Reservoir and Gisburn Forest loop is an excellent choice, being relatively short and easy with varied scenery that can keep younger riders engaged.

While gravel biking is possible year-round, spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colors. Summer can be great, but be prepared for potentially busier trails. Winter rides are possible, but some paths might be muddy or icy, especially on more rugged sections.

The Lawkland area, being part of a rural landscape, has villages and towns nearby that offer pubs and cafes. While specific routes aren't detailed with refreshment stops, planning your ride to pass through or near settlements like Settle or Tosside (depending on your chosen route) will likely provide opportunities for a break and refreshments.

Yes, the region offers views of significant peaks. The View of Pen-y-ghent – Settle Town Centre loop from Settle specifically highlights views of Pen-y-Ghent. Other prominent peaks in the wider area include Ingleborough summit and Fountains Fell Summit Cairn, which contribute to the scenic backdrop of many rides.

The trails vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter routes like the Stocks Reservoir and Gisburn Forest loop at 6.7 miles (10.8 km) taking about an hour. For longer adventures, routes such as the Bowland Knotts Climb – The 8 – Swoopy Section loop from Tosside stretch to 40.1 miles (64.5 km), requiring several hours to complete.