The best gravel rides around Buckland In The Moor

There are 9 gravel bike routes available around Buckland In The Moor, offering a variety of experiences through Dartmoor National Park.

The trails in this region feature a diverse mix of open moorland, river valleys, and forested sections. You'll encounter paths alongside waterways like the River Teign and through areas such as Bellever Forest, with undulating elevation changes typical of the Dartmoor landscape.

While there are no routes explicitly categorized as 'easy', several moderate trails are suitable for those new to gravel biking or looking for a less strenuous ride. For example, the Bellever Forest – Bellever Bridge loop from Dartmeet is a moderate 7.7 miles (12.4 km) path that navigates through forest and across open moorland.

Gravel bike routes in this area vary in length. You can find shorter moderate loops around 7-8 miles (12-13 km), such as the Bellever Forest – Bellever Bridge loop from Dartmeet, up to longer, more challenging rides of around 30 miles (48 km), like the Fingle Bridge – Wray Valley Trail loop from Bovey Tracey.

Yes, there are 5 difficult gravel bike routes for experienced riders seeking a challenge. These include longer distances and significant elevation changes, such as the Fingle Bridge – Wray Valley Trail loop from Bovey Tracey, which covers 30.0 miles (48.2 km) with over 500 meters of ascent.

Many of the gravel bike routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Wray Valley Trail – Wray Valley Trail loop from Bovey Tracey and the Bellever Forest – Bellever Bridge loop from Dartmeet.

The area is rich in natural beauty and landmarks. You can encounter impressive granite formations like Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor. There are also unique features such as the historic Postbridge Clapper Bridge and various lakes and ponds, including Haytor Quarry Pond with Water Lilies.

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and villages within Dartmoor National Park. For routes starting from Bovey Tracey, you'll find public car parks in the town. For trails deeper in the moor, look for designated parking areas near key landmarks or villages like Dartmeet, which serves as a starting point for tours such as the Bellever Forest – Bellever Bridge loop.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Dartmoor, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be excellent, but be prepared for potentially busier trails and warmer weather. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder, wetter conditions, and some trails may be more challenging due to mud.

Dartmoor National Park is known for its diverse wildlife. While gravel biking, you might spot Dartmoor ponies, various bird species, and other local fauna, especially in quieter sections of the moorland and forest. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best chances for wildlife encounters.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from open moorland to dense woodlands, and the scenic beauty of river valleys. The network offers options for both moderate and difficult ability levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Many routes in the Dartmoor area pass through or near villages where you can find pubs and cafes. For example, routes starting from Bovey Tracey, such as the Cafe 3 Sixty – Simms Hill Trail loop, offer opportunities to refuel before or after your ride. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance.