The best MTB trails around Exeter

There are over 25 mountain bike trails around Exeter, catering to various skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 225 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the area's diverse terrain.

Mountain biking around Exeter offers a diverse range of terrain. You can expect rugged open moorland and granite tors in Dartmoor National Park, dense woodlands with graded trails at Haldon Forest Park, and flat, scenic riverside paths along the Exe Estuary. Exeter's Valley Parks also provide local off-road tracks.

Yes, Exeter offers several excellent options for beginners and families. Haldon Forest Park features 12km of easy, green-rated trails like the Discovery Trail. The Exe Estuary Trail also provides a less strenuous, scenic ride suitable for all skill levels. An easy route to consider is the Exe Estuary Trail – Exe Estuary Trail loop from Newcourt.

For more challenging mountain bike routes, Dartmoor National Park offers demanding ascents, technical descents, and rocky bridleways. Haldon Forest Park also has a challenging black-rated Ridge Ride Extreme trail. A difficult route to explore is the Exeter loop to Ottery St Mary, which features significant elevation gain.

Haldon Forest Park is well-equipped for mountain bikers. It offers a bike shop with bike hire, including electrically assisted bikes, a cafe, and ample parking facilities. Additionally, the park features a pump track and a skills area for practicing techniques.

Yes, many mountain bike routes around Exeter are designed as loops. For example, the Topsham loop to Woodbury Castle & the Exe Estuary is a moderate circular route exploring historic sites. Another option is the Turf Lock – Turf Hotel & Marina loop from Marsh Barton, which is an easy ride through the Exe Estuary area.

Many trails offer scenic views and pass by interesting attractions. For instance, the Exeter Cathedral – Exeter Ship Canal loop from Exeter St Thomas allows you to see the historic Exeter Cathedral and the Exeter Ship Canal. Other highlights in the area include Countess Wear Bridges, Topsham Dock, and Topsham Town Centre.

Yes, mountain bike rentals are available. Haldon Forest Park, a popular mountain biking destination just a short drive from Exeter, has a bike shop that offers bike hire, including electrically assisted bikes. This is a convenient option if you don't have your own equipment.

Exeter's mountain biking trails, particularly those at Haldon Forest Park, are generally rideable year-round due to their rocky flint base. However, trails can become muddy in wet conditions. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Dartmoor's open moorland can be more exposed to weather, so checking conditions is advisable.

Many trails in the Exeter area, especially those on Dartmoor National Park and in some of the Valley Parks, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, particularly around livestock. Haldon Forest Park also welcomes dogs, usually on a lead. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out with your dog.

While many of the larger mountain biking areas like Haldon Forest Park and Dartmoor National Park are best accessed by car, some routes closer to Exeter or along the Exe Estuary can be reached using public transport. The Exe Estuary Trail, for example, is easily accessible from various points along the railway line that runs parallel to it, connecting towns like Exeter, Topsham, and Exmouth.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the challenging terrain of Dartmoor to the well-maintained trails of Haldon Forest Park, and the scenic, flat rides along the Exe Estuary. The variety ensures there's something for every skill level, and the stunning views of the Devonshire countryside are frequently highlighted.