The best cycling routes in North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire offers a vast network of over 2900 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with approximately 580 easy, 1340 moderate, and 1010 difficult options to explore.

North Yorkshire's touring cycling routes traverse a diverse landscape. You'll encounter the dramatic limestone formations and significant climbs of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the expansive heather moorland and ancient forests of the North York Moors National Park, and the gently undulating terrain of the Howardian Hills. The varied coastline also offers unique cycling experiences, providing a wide range of gradients and surfaces.

Yes, North Yorkshire has several excellent options for family-friendly touring cycling. The Ellerburn GREEN Trail in Dalby Forest is a great choice, offering an easy ride through the forest. Other suitable options include sections of the Cinder Track between Whitby and Scarborough, and the Nidderdale Greenway, which provides a gentle, scenic route.

North Yorkshire's routes pass by many stunning natural features and landmarks. In the Yorkshire Dales, you can experience the iconic Buttertubs Pass and the impressive Newby Head Pass. The Ingleton & the Ribblehead Viaduct loop from Settle offers views of the spectacular Ribblehead Viaduct. The North York Moors feature wide expanses of heather moorland, while Nidderdale AONB is known for its unique gritstone formations like Brimham Rocks. You might also encounter beautiful lakes such as Gormire Lake.

Absolutely. North Yorkshire is home to several significant long-distance routes. The Moors to Sea Cycle Route is a challenging 46.2-mile path connecting the North York Moors with the coast, offering varied terrain and extensive views. The wider Moor to Sea Cycle Network covers approximately 150 miles, and the North York Moors Cycleway is a 171-mile figure-of-eight loop on quieter roads.

The touring cycling routes in North Yorkshire are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1900 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse and stunning landscapes, from the dramatic dales to the expansive moorlands and coastal paths. The variety of routes, catering to all abilities, and the well-maintained trails like the Cinder Track are also often highlighted.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in North Yorkshire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Buttertubs Pass & Oxnop Scar loop from Hawes offers a challenging circular ride through the Yorkshire Dales. Another popular option is the Robin Hood's Bay on the cinder track loop from Whitby, which provides a coastal circular experience.

For easier touring cycling, consider routes within Dalby Forest, such as the Adderstone GREEN Trail (full trail) or its shorter loop. These trails are generally less challenging with moderate elevation changes. The Nidderdale Greenway and the York to Selby Cycle Path are also known for being gentle, traffic-free options suitable for all abilities.

Experienced touring cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes in North Yorkshire. The Tan Hill Inn & Gunnerside loop from Grinton is a difficult 46 km route with significant elevation gain, taking you through rugged landscapes. The Ingleton & the Ribblehead Viaduct loop from Settle also presents a demanding ride with over 750 meters of ascent.

The best time for touring cycling in North Yorkshire is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder and more stable, making for more enjoyable rides. The heather moorlands are particularly stunning in late summer. While some routes are accessible year-round, winter can bring challenging conditions, especially in higher elevations like the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors.

Yes, Dalby Forest offers a dedicated route for e-bikes. The E-Xplorer GREEN E-Bike Trail is a moderate 17.2 km loop designed to be enjoyed with the assistance of an electric bike, allowing riders to cover more ground and tackle varied terrain with greater ease.