The best MTB trails around High Ongar
3.9
(19)
73
riders
13
rides
Mountain biking around High Ongar offers a diverse landscape for riders. The region is characterized by a mix of woodlands, open countryside, and river paths, providing varied terrain for mountain bike trails. Riders can expect to navigate through areas like Epping Forest and along scenic country roads. The gentle undulations of the Essex countryside make for accessible yet engaging routes.
Best mountain bike trails around High Ongar
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Brentwood to Pole's Wood loop, a 17.7 miles (28.5 km) moderate trail that takes 1 hour 36 minutes to complete. This route explores a mix of forest paths and open country.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Strawberry Hill Pond – Epping Forest loop from Epping Forest, a moderate 18.6 miles (29.9 km) path. This trail winds through the extensive woodlands of Epping Forest, offering a classic forest riding experience.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Scenic Country Road in Essex – Blackmore Tea Rooms loop from Writtle, a 20.6 miles (33.2 km) trail leading through scenic country roads and villages, often completed in about 1 hour 49 minutes.
- Mountain biking around High Ongar is defined by dense woodlands, riverside paths, and open country roads. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family friendly mountain bike trails High Ongar to more advanced mountain bike routes High Ongar.
- The routes in High Ongar are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.5 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 70 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore High Ongar's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
3.8
(5)
18
riders
28.5km
01:37
220m
220m
This moderate 17.7-mile mountain biking loop near Brentwood takes you through Weald Country Park and Pole's Wood.
3.7
(3)
16
riders
29.9km
02:04
240m
240m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
13
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
3
riders
33.2km
01:49
220m
220m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
58.9km
03:28
400m
400m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Do not come here no signal komoot takes you on a wild goose chase
0
0
As you enter the forest goes down and then up, make sure you have enough to take up the hill
0
0
I went down this trail yesterday 5 July 2025, coming from Kelvenden Hatch on a gravel bike. The trail through the forest was fine but as I neared the bottom of the hill my GPS indicated I was off route. As others have suggested the newish fence looks like it has been put in place to push you into a bog, which was dried up for me but only just after 4 months with little rain. It was also full of razor grass. It wasn't obvious which way to go, but I wasn't giving in and after some floundering around I managed to get through. Like the others ignoring the signs and lugging my bike across some quite deep ditches, which may be impassable in wet weather.
0
0
Heading out of Braintree you hit the main road after this point. Careful of the traffic!
0
0
Open 7 days a week from 7am to 3pm. Always a warm chatty welcome. Bike racks. Toilet. Excellent coffee and good selection of cakes as well as breakfasts and lunches. Highly recommend for a stop and refuel.
0
0
awesome little spot to get some great views
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around High Ongar?
There are 14 mountain bike trails around High Ongar listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
What is the overall difficulty level of mountain biking in High Ongar?
The trails around High Ongar offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find 7 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, 5 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 2 difficult routes for experienced riders.
Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in High Ongar?
Yes, High Ongar has 7 easy mountain bike trails that are great for beginners and families. An example is the Scenic Country Road in Essex – Blackmore Tea Rooms loop from Writtle, which is 20.6 miles (33.2 km) long and offers a gentle ride through the countryside.
Are there any advanced mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders looking for a challenge, there are 2 difficult mountain bike routes. One such route is the Dunnow Cutting Forest Trail – Flitch Way road crossing loop from Shenfield, which spans 68.8 miles (110.8 km) and involves significant elevation changes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near High Ongar?
The region offers diverse terrain, including dense woodlands, open countryside, and riverside paths. You can expect to navigate through areas like Epping Forest and along scenic country roads, with the gentle undulations typical of the Essex countryside.
Are there circular mountain bike routes available?
Many of the mountain bike trails around High Ongar are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the popular Brentwood to Pole's Wood loop is a 17.7 miles (28.5 km) moderate circular trail.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in High Ongar?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in High Ongar, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be good, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but some trails, especially in wooded areas, can become muddy.
What are the winter conditions like for mountain biking in High Ongar?
During winter, trails in High Ongar, particularly those in woodlands or low-lying areas, can become muddy and slippery. It's advisable to check local weather conditions and trail reports before heading out and to be prepared for wet and potentially cold weather.
Are there cafes or places to get refreshments near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. For example, the Blackmore Tea Rooms are located along the Scenic Country Road in Essex – Blackmore Tea Rooms loop from Writtle. You might also find other local cafes or pubs in nearby villages.
What can I see along the mountain bike trails in High Ongar?
Beyond the natural beauty of woodlands and open fields, you might encounter interesting landmarks. The Scenic Country Road in Essex – Blackmore Tea Rooms loop from Writtle passes by the Blackmore Tea Rooms. Other highlights in the broader area include the St Andrew's Church and Crusader's Grave, Greensted, and a Scenic church in Writtle.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in High Ongar?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from forest paths to open country roads, and the accessibility of routes for different ability levels. Over 70 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the region.
Most popular attractions around High Ongar
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
