4.7
(101)
484
riders
57
rides
Mountain biking around Croft features a network of routes primarily characterized by canal paths and rolling terrain. The landscape includes waterways like the Bridgewater Canal and Sankey Canal, offering generally flat and accessible riding. While many routes traverse lower elevations, some areas provide more significant climbs and descents, such as those leading towards Rivington Pike. This region offers varied environments for mountain bikers, from waterside trails to paths with moderate elevation changes.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.5
(2)
20
riders
46.0km
02:30
120m
120m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
23
riders
51.0km
02:55
130m
130m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.9
(8)
15
riders
42.1km
02:39
150m
150m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(10)
11
riders
72.5km
04:14
190m
190m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
13
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Part of the newton heritage trail . The first modern canal opened in 1757 built to transport coal
2
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The gates are situated at the Blackbrook entrance behind the Sankey Arms
0
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Tip:Avoid the Ice Cream Run!โฆ.. unless you are very compรฉtant.
0
0
watch out for dog walkers who don't have their dogs on a lead.
0
0
A very pleasant cycleway - of course also for hikers and riders - along the Bridgewater Canal
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There are over 50 mountain bike trails available around Croft. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 35 easy trails and 23 moderate trails, ensuring options for both beginners and more experienced riders.
The mountain bike trails in Croft are primarily categorized as easy or moderate. You'll find 35 easy trails, perfect for a relaxed ride, and 23 moderate trails that offer a bit more challenge with rolling terrain and some elevation changes. There are no difficult trails listed in this region.
Yes, Croft offers several family-friendly options, particularly among its 35 easy-graded trails. Many routes follow canal paths, which are generally flat and accessible, making them suitable for families. For example, sections of the Bridgewater Canal offer pleasant, straightforward riding.
Mountain biking around Croft is characterized by a mix of canal paths and rolling terrain. You'll encounter waterways like the Bridgewater Canal and Sankey Canal, providing generally flat and accessible riding. Some areas, particularly those leading towards Rivington Pike, offer more significant climbs and descents, adding variety to the landscape.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Croft are designed as loops. For instance, the Bridgewater Canal โ Jackson's Boat loop from Padgate is a popular circular trail, as is the Wildlife on Sankey Canal โ Sankey Canal loop from Newton-le-Willows.
Along the mountain bike trails in Croft, you can explore various natural attractions. Highlights include several lakes such as Scotman's Flash, Lymm Dam, and Pennington Flash. You might also encounter natural monuments like the Life for a Life Memorial Forest and the Cadishead and Little Woolden Moss Nature Reserve.
The mountain bike trails in Croft are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from accessible canal paths to routes with moderate elevation, and the opportunity to explore scenic waterways and natural areas.
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, Croft offers several extensive routes. The The Bridgewater Way โ Bridgewater Canal in Worsley loop from Earlestown is a significant 74.5 km trail, and the Ice Cream Chute Downhill Trail โ Rivington Pike Tower loop from Earlestown covers 72.2 km, offering a substantial day out on the bike.
While many trails follow flat canal paths, you can find routes with more significant elevation gain. The Ice Cream Chute Downhill Trail โ Rivington Pike Tower loop from Earlestown, for example, includes over 600 meters of elevation gain, leading towards Rivington Pike Tower for a more challenging experience.
Local mountain bikers frequently enjoy routes like the Bridgewater Canal โ Jackson's Boat loop from Padgate, which offers scenic canal-side landscapes. Another local favorite is the Dream Sculpture โ Wildlife on Sankey Canal loop from Newton-le-Willows, providing a blend of nature and points of interest.
Croft's trails are generally open year-round. However, the best time to visit for mountain biking is typically during the drier months from spring through autumn (April to October) when the canal paths and rolling terrain are less likely to be muddy, offering more comfortable riding conditions.


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