The best MTB trails in Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve

There are over 35 mountain bike trails available for exploration in the Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve area, catering to various skill levels.

You can expect a varied and rugged terrain, characterized by ancient 600-million-year-old Precambrian rock outcrops, heath grassland, mixed woodlands, and wetlands. This diverse landscape provides an engaging experience for riders.

Yes, there are 22 easy mountain bike trails in the area. An excellent option for a gentle ride is the Snibston Fishing Lake – Snibston Discovery Trail loop from Coalville, which is 19.0 km long and takes about 1 hour 14 minutes.

Yes, the area offers 12 moderate and 1 difficult mountain bike route. For a longer, moderate ride, consider the Cloud Trail – Swarkestone Lock loop from Shepshed, which spans 58.1 km and typically takes around 3 hours 10 minutes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from ancient rock outcrops to heath grasslands and woodlands, which create a unique and engaging backdrop for mountain biking.

Many of the trails in the area are circular. For example, the Shepshed Pump Track loop from Shepshed is a 24.0 km circular route that takes about 1 hour 27 minutes to complete.

Direct access to Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve, including parking, is generally restricted to members of the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust (LRWT). Members can obtain access details by emailing info@lrwt.org.uk.

Yes, other locations in the broader Charnwood Forest area, such as Bradgate Park and Beacon Hill Country Park, are also excellent for mountain biking and offer diverse trails suitable for various skill levels without the specific membership access requirements of Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve.

Many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The Snibston Colliery Park – Snibston Discovery Trail loop from Coalville is a 12.7 km easy route that is a good option for a family outing.

The trails traverse an ancient landscape featuring 600-million-year-old Precambrian rock outcrops, rare lowland heath, mixed woodlands, wetlands, and ponds. You might also spot diverse flora and wildlife, including various bird species and butterflies.

The area offers enjoyable riding throughout much of the year. Spring brings vibrant birdsong in the woodlands, while summer is ideal for spotting butterflies in the grasslands. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter can be ridden, though trail conditions may vary.

While direct parking within Charnwood Lodge National Nature Reserve is restricted to LRWT members, parking is available at alternative nearby locations like Bradgate Park and Beacon Hill Country Park, which also offer excellent mountain biking opportunities.