Follow the Dog and The Monkey Trail

This route is rated as difficult on komoot, combining two challenging mountain bike trails at Cannock Chase. "Follow the Dog" is an intermediate, Red-graded trail, while "The Monkey Trail" significantly increases the technical and physical demands, featuring more challenging descents and Black-graded sections with large rocks and tight switchbacks. A good level of fitness and competent riding skills are recommended for the full experience.

The full route, combining both "Follow the Dog" and "The Monkey Trail," is approximately 35.6 km long and typically takes around 3 hours and 16 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your fitness level, technical skill, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or tackle challenging sections.

The trails are easily accessible from the Birches Valley Visitor Centre at Cannock Chase. This is the primary parking area and trailhead. Be aware that the visitor centre can become quite busy, especially on weekends, so arriving earlier might secure you a better spot.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride the mountain bike trails themselves at Cannock Chase. However, parking at the Birches Valley Visitor Centre car park will incur a charge.

You'll encounter a dynamic mix of terrain. "Follow the Dog" features approximately 75% singletrack with berms, small drop-offs, and boardwalks. The surface can be sandy, with exposed tree roots and polished stones due to erosion. "The Monkey Trail" adds more flowing singletrack, medium berms, step-ups, step-downs, rock gardens, rollers, jumps, and drop-offs, particularly in its demanding Black-graded sections like the Tom, Dick and Harry Descents.

Along the route, you'll find several exciting sections. On "Follow the Dog," look out for the technical Stegosaurus Section with its angular rock formations and the Watch Out Trolls! Boardwalk. "The Monkey Trail" offers challenging descents like the Tom, Dick and Harry Descents and the Lower Cliff Trail. You can also find facilities at Swinerton Cycles Forest Centre near the start.

While "Follow the Dog" is considered intermediate, the combined route with "The Monkey Trail" is rated as difficult and features Black-graded sections. It's generally not recommended for absolute beginners or young families looking for a gentle ride. Riders should have competent mountain biking skills and a good level of fitness. For those new to technical trails, "Follow the Dog" alone might be a better starting point before tackling the full combined route.

The trails can be ridden year-round, but conditions vary. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful woodland scenery. Summer can be good, but the trails can get very busy, especially on weekends. Winter riding is possible, and night riding is a popular feature that transforms the experience, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails at Cannock Chase, but they must be kept under control, preferably on a leash, especially given the presence of free-roaming deer and other wildlife. Always be mindful of other trail users, particularly mountain bikers, and ensure your dog does not impede their path.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths within Cannock Chase. You'll find sections that overlap with the Sherbrook Valley Trail, the Heart of England Way, and the Two Saints Way. Additionally, smaller named sections like High Voltage, Le Singe Noir, and Uncle Arthur are part of the larger mountain bike network.

Given the route's length and difficulty, it's essential to be well-prepared. Bring plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (including spare tubes/puncture repair), and a first-aid kit. A helmet is mandatory, and for the more challenging sections of "The Monkey Trail," a full-face helmet and pads are highly recommended. Appropriate clothing for the weather and a charged phone are also crucial.

Yes, the Birches Valley Visitor Centre, where the trailhead is located, offers various facilities. You'll find a cafe for refreshments and a bike shop, Swinerton Cycles Forest Centre, for any last-minute gear or repairs. These amenities make it convenient to start and finish your ride.