4.4
(219)
1,386
riders
117
rides
Mountain biking around Carlton offers a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and open countryside typical of West Yorkshire. The area features a mix of established forest parks and trails winding through valleys and along rivers. Riders can expect varied terrain, from gentle paths to more challenging ascents and descents.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
2.0
(1)
4
riders
4.67km
00:25
70m
60m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
36
riders
20.6km
01:44
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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5.0
(2)
10
riders
25.8km
01:55
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
16.7km
01:15
240m
240m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
35.6km
02:25
610m
610m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lindley Wood is a compensation reservoir, which means it is not linked to the supply of water to homes but is there to take excess water from Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs, which are nearby. This is why there is not much water in there.
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Great riding here. But what a pity they call it "Stainburn"! Been known to us locals as Norwood Edge ever since I remember. Stainburn is actually a few miles away, and the so-called "Stainburn forest " is locally known as "Lindley Moor". We get bikers turning up at Leathley on Stainburn lane asking for directions and I have to point them in the opposite direction.
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This reservoir is one of the oldest in the Washbourn Valley; it was built between 1869 and 1876. The other three reservoirs here are Thruscross, Swinsty and Fewston. Walking around the reservoir is a truly aesthetic, soul-beautifying experience. The green wooded banks, woodland and reservoir paths and open countryside... what else would anyone want in life?... oh, sunsets here are unbelievable.
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Surprise View is a scenic viewpoint located above the town of Otley in Yorkshire. On a fine day you can more or less take a visual tour from York to Skipton and eye-feast the landscape in detail, including across the wonderful Yorkshire Dales.
3
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From here you can head down the two red trails. Go straight for the descent line or take the left for a shorter red trail to the car park, it has berms/jumps, and being stainburn a few rocky technical features too.
1
0
Nice way to get to/from the chevin or to the back roads to yeadon and guiseley. Plenty of walkers, dogs and horses and blind corners so keep a look out.
3
0
Quite popular with horses and walkers so don't razz down here, but great section of singletrack that avoids the roads
0
0
There are over 120 mountain bike trails around Carlton, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 1,400 mountain biking adventures in the area.
Mountain biking around Carlton features a diverse landscape with rolling hills, dense woodlands, and open countryside typical of West Yorkshire. You'll find a mix of established forest parks and trails winding through valleys and along rivers, offering varied terrain from gentle paths to more challenging ascents and descents.
Yes, Carlton offers a good selection of trails for beginners. There are 46 easy mountain bike routes available. A great option is the Chevin Forest Park loop, which is 2.9 miles (4.7 km) long and provides a pleasant ride through mature woodland.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Carlton has 12 difficult mountain bike routes. One notable option is the Blue Bell Inn, Kettlewell – The Craven Arms loop from Guiseley, which is a demanding 94.3 miles (151.7 km) ride with significant elevation changes.
Many of the mountain bike routes around Carlton are circular, providing convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Chevin Forest Park loop and the Woodland Trail – Top of Upper Trigger loop from Bramhope.
The best time for mountain biking in Carlton generally aligns with drier weather, typically from late spring through early autumn. However, the well-drained soils in some areas can allow for extended riding seasons. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Given the West Yorkshire climate, some trails, especially those in wooded or low-lying areas, can become muddy during or after periods of rain. It's always advisable to check recent trail conditions or local forecasts before your ride, particularly outside of the drier summer months.
Around Carlton, you can discover several interesting landmarks. Consider visiting the ancient Twelve Apostles Stone Circle on Ilkley Moor, the unique rock formations of Cow and Calf Rocks, or the historic Bingley Five Rise Locks. These offer great points of interest to combine with your ride.
Yes, for dedicated mountain biking, you can explore areas like Stainburn Forest (Norwood Edge) Pump Track. This area offers specific features and trails designed for mountain bikers, including the Top of the Descent Line – Stainburn Red Trails.
The mountain bike trails around Carlton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 220 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, scenic views, and the mix of forest trails and open countryside paths.
Yes, there are several family-friendly mountain bike trails in Carlton, particularly among the 46 easy routes available. These trails are generally less technical and shorter, making them suitable for families with children or those looking for a relaxed ride. The Chevin Forest Park loop is a good example of an accessible route.
Absolutely. Many mountain bike trails in Carlton offer scenic views, especially those that traverse rolling hills and open countryside. The region's dense woodlands and river valleys also provide picturesque settings for your ride. Look for routes that mention 'panoramic vistas' or 'scenic views' in their descriptions.


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