The best MTB trails around Scorton

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Scorton, offering a variety of experiences within the Forest of Bowland National Landscape. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging technical sections.

Yes, Scorton offers a good selection of trails for beginners. There are 13 easy-graded routes available. An example is the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Catterick Bridge loop from Colburn, which is an easy 11.7-mile route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for those starting out.

The terrain around Scorton is diverse, characterized by the wild moorland, rugged hills, and unspoiled valleys of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape. You'll find a mix of woodland paths, open moorland, and varied forest terrain, with some routes offering challenging technical sections and others providing smoother rides.

Yes, many of the routes around Scorton are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Whitcliffe Wood – Ruins of Easby Abbey loop from Colburn is a moderate 15.0-mile circular trail, and the Cairn Below Applegarth Scar – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Richmond is a moderate 9.4-mile circular path.

The trails often pass by significant historical sites and natural beauty spots. You can explore the Ruins of Easby Abbey, or ride near the Richmond Market Town and Castle. The region itself is part of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, offering views of wild moorland, rugged hills, and the prominent local landmark of Nicky Nook.

While mountain biking is possible year-round, the best time to visit is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and trails are less likely to be muddy or icy. The Forest of Bowland offers stunning scenery during these seasons, though some challenging routes in the Bowland Fells can be enjoyed by experienced riders even in colder months.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options, particularly among the 13 easy-graded routes. These trails often feature less challenging terrain and shorter distances, making them suitable for families. The Scorton Lakes Nature Reserve also has bridleways that can be incorporated into gentler cycling routes, offering a pleasant experience for all ages.

Scorton village itself is a popular hub for cyclists and typically offers parking facilities. For specific trailheads, parking information is often available on individual route pages. Many routes start from villages or towns that provide public parking options.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from tranquil woodland paths to challenging moorland sections, and the stunning natural beauty of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape.

Scorton village is well-known as a welcoming stop for cyclists. The Barn in Scorton is a favored spot with bike racks and provisions, offering refreshments. You'll find various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options within Scorton and the surrounding villages, making it convenient for pre- or post-ride sustenance and overnight stays.

Absolutely. For experienced mountain bikers, the rugged Bowland Fells and Pennine Hills offer opportunities for epic rides with significant elevation gains and technical sections. Routes like the Salters' Way are considered challenging moorland crossings, and more technical gritstone routes can be found in areas like Rossendale and Lee Quarry, accessible from Scorton.

While Scorton is a rural area, some public transport options may connect to nearby towns and villages. However, direct access to specific trailheads via public transport can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider starting routes from towns with better public transport links, such as Richmond, which is a starting point for routes like the Richmond Town Centre – Ruins of Easby Abbey loop from Middleton Tyas.