The best traffic-free bike rides around Leighton Reservoir

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails detailed in this guide, offering a range of distances and challenges for exploring the beautiful Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The trails around Leighton Reservoir feature a varied terrain, including unpaved tracks, forest paths, moorland sections, and quiet country lanes. You'll encounter rolling hills and farmland, providing a diverse and engaging gravel biking experience.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options for various fitness levels. For example, the View of Scar House Reservoir – Scar House Descent loop from Lofthouse is a moderate 13.3 km ride with 279 m of elevation gain, suitable for those looking for a less strenuous option. Other routes offer more significant climbs and distances.

You'll be cycling through the stunning Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The routes offer picturesque views of Leighton Reservoir itself, surrounded by rolling hills and active farmland. Keep an eye out for waterfowl on the reservoir, especially in winter. The nearby market town of Masham also offers a historic market square.

Parking facilities can be limited and challenging to locate in the immediate vicinity of Leighton Reservoir. It's advisable to plan your start point carefully, perhaps from nearby villages or towns that offer more designated parking, such as Masham, which is a starting point for some routes like the Masham Climb – Trapping Hill loop.

The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be tranquil but may present uneven or muddy paths due to weather conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

While some routes are quite challenging, the area does offer quieter sections that could be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with moderate distances. The 13.3 km View of Scar House Reservoir – Scar House Descent loop is a moderate option to consider, but always assess the specific route's difficulty and your family's capabilities.

Many public rights of way in the Nidderdale AONB are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially as you'll be passing through active farmland with livestock and areas rich in wildlife. Always follow the Countryside Code and be mindful of other trail users.

The nearby market town of Masham, which serves as a starting point for routes like the Masham Market Square – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop, offers various cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel. Along the trails themselves, options are limited, so it's best to carry sufficient water and snacks.

The longest no-traffic gravel route featured is the Masham Market Square – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Masham, spanning 55.6 km with over 1000 m of elevation gain. This route requires very good fitness and offers an extensive exploration of the area.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Nutwith Lane – View of Helks Wood Valley loop from Welcome to Tom Corner offer 30 km with 464 m of elevation gain, providing a demanding and rewarding experience through varied terrain.