4.6
(201)
1,578
riders
80
rides
Mountain biking around Stonebeck Down offers diverse terrain within the Nidderdale National Landscape, featuring rolling hills, wide valleys, and open countryside. The area includes moorlands, woodlands, and paths around reservoirs, providing varied riding conditions. Riders encounter striking natural features such as gritstone rocks, limestone formations, and the tranquil Gouthwaite Reservoir. This landscape presents both flat gravel paths and technical, challenging hilly routes.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.7
(24)
193
riders
24.1km
02:01
520m
520m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
45
riders
41.6km
03:12
790m
790m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.8
(9)
41
riders
38.6km
03:10
820m
820m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
15
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
35
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Couldn't find the pool. Nice stream though.
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In Moor lane is a byway that runs over In Moor in Nidderdale. This section is fun on a mountain bike, either as a descent towards Scar House reservoir or as a climb up onto the moor. It drops off the moor to the reservoir quite steeply, so watch out! This track is used by the Nidderdale Way long distance walking trail, so watch out for walkers.
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Nice friendly pub with great food and a nice outside area
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Be careful on gravel on fast off camber turn.. not much grip.
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Completed in 1936 Scar House Reservoir was built to supply water to the Bradford area. It was built after Angram reservoir which is directly upstream and after Gouthwaite reservoir located a few miles downstream. The dam is 55m high in the middle.
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Fabulous valley views looking down towards Helks Wood
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Fantastic views down the valley leading to Scar house and Roundhill Reservoir.
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There are over 80 mountain bike trails available around Stonebeck Down, offering a wide range of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these trails over 1600 times.
Mountain biking around Stonebeck Down offers diverse terrain within the Nidderdale National Landscape. You can expect rolling hills, wide valleys, and open countryside, with landscapes including moorlands, woodlands, and areas around reservoirs. The region features both flat gravel paths suitable for gentle rides and technical, challenging hilly routes.
The trails around Stonebeck Down cater to various skill levels. There are 8 easy routes, 62 moderate routes, and 12 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced mountain bikers.
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty and landmarks. You can encounter dramatic rock formations like Brimham Rocks, explore spectacular limestone ravines such as How Stean Gorge, or visit the refreshing Linton Falls. Many routes also offer stunning Dales views and pass by reservoirs like Gouthwaite Reservoir and Scar House Reservoir.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Stonebeck Down are circular. For example, the Pately Bridge loop is a moderate 25.8-mile circular path offering extensive views. Another option is the View of Scar House Reservoir β Scar House Descent loop from Lofthouse, which is 23.7 miles and leads through moorlands and past reservoirs.
The mountain bike trails around Stonebeck Down are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 190 reviews. Riders often praise the varied landscapes, from rolling hills and moorlands to woodlands and reservoirs, as well as the unique rock formations and challenging technical sections available.
Yes, Stonebeck Down offers options for families. While some routes are challenging, there are also flat gravel paths and easier trails suitable for less experienced riders or families looking for a more gentle outing. It's advisable to check the difficulty rating of specific routes to ensure they match your family's skill level.
Many trails in the Nidderdale National Landscape are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific restrictions on individual trails or protected areas.
Yes, the Nidderdale area has amenities for visitors. You can find cafes and pubs in nearby villages and towns. For example, Pateley Bridge is a market town that offers various options for refreshments and is a common starting or ending point for many routes.
The best time to go mountain biking in Stonebeck Down is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and trails are drier. While winter riding is possible, conditions can be challenging with mud, ice, and shorter daylight hours, especially on moorland routes.
Public transport options to access the more remote mountain bike trails in Stonebeck Down can be limited. It's recommended to check local bus services for routes connecting to larger towns like Pateley Bridge, which may offer closer access to some trailheads. Planning your journey in advance is advisable.
Parking is available in various locations around Stonebeck Down, particularly in and around the villages and popular trailheads. Many routes start from areas with designated parking, such as near Pateley Bridge or reservoirs. Always check for specific parking information for your chosen starting point.
Yes, for experienced mountain bikers seeking a challenge, Stonebeck Down offers several difficult routes. An example is the The Yorke Arms β View of Helks Wood Valley loop from Fountains Earth, a 38.6-mile route with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding ride through varied terrain.


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