4.7
(788)
11,557
riders
105
rides
Mountain biking around Penkridge is primarily centered on the nearby Cannock Chase Forest, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region features a diverse landscape of heathland, woodlands, and undulating lowlands, providing varied terrain for mountain bikers. The area is characterized by purpose-built trails within the forest, offering a mix of natural and constructed obstacles. The broader Staffordshire county also presents a varied topography with hilly sections and river valleys.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
4.7
(163)
2,545
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.8
(20)
286
riders
39.5km
03:18
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.6
(5)
132
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.5
(4)
74
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.3
(3)
67
riders
18.5km
01:38
300m
300m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Great place to ride. It's on my doorstep but definitely worth visiting no matter how far you are away.
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With Black Graded alternative line over raised wooden pier then dropping down over a small rock garden. Looks far more daunting than it actually is
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Currently numerous diversions in place, including “watch out trolls’… but lots of good trails.
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There are over 100 mountain bike trails around Penkridge, primarily located within the nearby Cannock Chase Forest. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, with 34 easy, 70 moderate, and 4 difficult trails to explore.
Mountain biking around Penkridge is defined by the varied landscape of Cannock Chase National Landscape. You can expect dense woodlands, open heathland, and undulating lowlands. The trails feature a mix of natural and purpose-built obstacles, including singletrack sections and gravel roads, catering to different skill levels.
Yes, Cannock Chase Forest offers options suitable for families. For beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride, there's a green-rated gravel road loop around the lakes. While specific family-rated routes aren't detailed, the presence of easy trails and less challenging options like Perry's Trail (a blue-rated singletrack) suggests suitable choices for various family members.
Many of the mountain bike trails in Cannock Chase Forest are designed as loops. For example, the Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase – Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead loop from Hednesford is a popular circular route, as is the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead – The Butts Trig Point loop from Cannock, which explores the wider area.
While riding, you'll be immersed in the natural beauty of Cannock Chase National Landscape, with its heathland and woodlands. You might encounter features like Fairoak Pools or Stony Brook Pools. The The Butts Trig Point offers a viewpoint, and you could also pass by the Glacial Boulder.
Yes, for experienced riders, Cannock Chase Forest offers challenging options. The red-rated trails like the Follow the Dog and Monkey Trail include obstacles and technical sections. The Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase – Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead loop from Hednesford even features "spicy black optional segments" for those seeking an extra challenge. There are 4 difficult routes in total.
The mountain bike trails around Penkridge are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 700 reviews. Riders often praise the well-maintained trails, the variety of terrain, and the beautiful natural setting of Cannock Chase Forest.
Yes, the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead serves as a primary starting point for many routes and provides parking facilities. This is a convenient base for accessing the various trails within the forest.
Trail lengths and durations vary significantly. For example, the Are We There Yet? Trail – Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead loop from German War Cemetery is about 9.2 miles (14.9 km) and takes around 1 hour 11 minutes. Longer routes, like the Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead – The Butts Trig Point loop from Cannock, stretch to 24.5 miles (39.5 km) and can take nearly 3.5 hours to complete.
Intermediate riders will find plenty to enjoy on the moderate-difficulty trails within Cannock Chase Forest. The red-rated trails, such as the Follow the Dog and Monkey Trail, offer a good balance of challenge and flow. The Are We There Yet? Trail – Cannock Chase Forest Trailhead loop from Hednesford is another moderate option that leads through the woodlands.
The trails in Cannock Chase Forest are generally accessible year-round, but conditions can vary. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. During winter, some trails might be muddy, so checking local conditions before heading out is advisable. Summer can be busy, but the forest provides good shade.
Yes, the region offers several spots with good views. The The Butts Trig Point is a known natural monument and viewpoint. Additionally, the varied terrain of Cannock Chase National Landscape provides numerous scenic overlooks, especially from higher points within the heathland and woodlands.


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