The best MTB trails around Crosby Garrett

There are nearly 30 mountain bike trails around Crosby Garrett, offering diverse terrain across Cumbria. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 20 reviews.

While there are no trails explicitly rated 'easy' in our collection, many of the 27 'moderate' routes are accessible for riders with some experience. These often feature grassy paths and gentle uphills, providing a good introduction to the area's varied terrain. For example, the View of the Vale of Eden – Pendragon Castle ruins loop from Kirkby Stephen is a moderate 15.7-mile path with scenic views.

The terrain around Crosby Garrett is quite varied, ranging from grassy paths over fells like Smardale Fell to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain. You'll encounter diverse landscapes including valleys, limestone pavements, and sections of long-distance bridleways like the Pennine Bridleway and Coast to Coast path.

Many of the moderate trails can be enjoyed by families with some mountain biking experience. Routes that feature less technical terrain and offer scenic views, such as those over Smardale Fell, are often good choices. Always check the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's ability.

Many trails in the Crosby Garrett area are suitable for dogs, especially those on public bridleways. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, particularly when passing livestock or in nature reserves like Smardale Gill. Always check local signage and be mindful of other trail users and wildlife.

The area offers several impressive sights. You can ride past the ruins of Pendragon Castle, or enjoy views of the Smardale Viaduct on routes like the View of the Smardale Viaduct – Smardale Bridge loop from Kirkby Stephen. Other highlights include the expansive views from Wild Boar Fell (Wild Boar Fell Summit Shelter) and the impressive Cautley Spout Waterfall.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Crosby Garrett are designed as loops. For example, the St Andrew's Church, Dent – Rawthey Valley loop from Ravenstonedale is a popular 23-mile circular route. Another option is the challenging Garsdale Rollercoaster Road – Rawthey Valley loop from Ravenstonedale, which covers over 42 miles.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in Cumbria, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, but trails may be busier. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially wet and cold conditions, and some higher routes might be exposed to strong winds or snow.

Parking is typically available in villages like Kirkby Stephen or Ravenstonedale, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Always look for designated parking areas and be considerate of local residents when parking in rural locations.

While public transport options might be limited directly to all trailheads, some routes are accessible from towns like Kirkby Stephen, which has bus services and a railway station on the Settle-Carlisle line. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules in advance for specific routes and bike carriage policies.

The villages surrounding Crosby Garrett, such as Kirkby Stephen and Ravenstonedale, offer various pubs and cafes where you can refuel. Some routes may pass through or near these villages, providing opportunities for a break. It's a good idea to plan your route to include these stops if desired.

Generally, no specific permits are required for mountain biking on public bridleways and byways in the Crosby Garrett area or within the nearby Yorkshire Dales National Park. However, always respect private land, stick to marked trails, and be aware of any local regulations, especially within nature reserves.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning panoramic views of the Vale of Eden and surrounding fells, and the sense of peaceful exploration on trails that range from moderate to challenging. The opportunity to combine rides with visits to historical sites like Pendragon Castle also adds to the appeal.