The best gravel rides around Easterton

Easterton and its surrounding area offer a good selection of gravel bike trails, with over 20 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging options.

The gravel biking routes around Easterton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from several reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, which includes open plains, historic canal networks, and rolling hills, as well as notable landmarks like the Caen Hill Locks and the Westbury White Horse.

Yes, Easterton has several easy gravel bike trails perfect for beginners. There are 4 routes specifically categorized as easy. A good option is the Caen Hill Locks – Canal Towpath Cycle Route loop from Rowde, which is 22.2 miles (35.7 km) and features mostly flat canal towpaths.

For those seeking a challenge, Easterton offers 7 difficult gravel bike routes. One such route is the Imber Range Path – Salisbury Plain Perimeter Path loop from Enford. This 64.3-mile (103.5 km) route includes significant elevation changes and traverses the open landscapes of Salisbury Plain.

Many of the gravel bike routes around Easterton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Avoncliff Aqueduct – Caen Hill Locks loop from Devizes is a 45.0-mile (72.5 km) circular route that takes you past historic aqueducts and canal locks.

While specific parking areas aren't detailed for every route, many trails start from villages like Devizes, Rowde, or Upavon. You can typically find public parking in these towns, often near canal access points or village centers, which serve as convenient starting points for your rides.

Gravel biking in Easterton is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather on exposed sections of Salisbury Plain. Winter rides are possible, but some byways might be muddy, especially after heavy rain.

Given the varied terrain, it's advisable to bring a repair kit, extra tubes, and a pump. Hydration and snacks are essential, especially for longer rides across Salisbury Plain where amenities are sparse. Depending on the season, layers of clothing are recommended, and always carry a map or use a reliable navigation app like komoot, as phone signal can be intermittent in some rural areas.

Yes, many routes pass through or near villages and towns like Devizes, which offer cafes, pubs, and shops for refreshments. Along the canal towpaths, you might also find waterside pubs. However, on more remote sections, particularly across Salisbury Plain, services are limited, so plan accordingly.

The gravel trails around Easterton offer several scenic viewpoints and historical landmarks. You can encounter the impressive Caen Hill Locks, a flight of 29 locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal. Many routes also offer views of the iconic Westbury White Horse. Additionally, you might pass by ancient sites like the Cursus Barrows or the Stonehenge Cursus, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Yes, you can incorporate views of the Westbury White Horse into your gravel biking adventure. The Imber Range Path – View from Westbury White Horse loop from West Lavington is a challenging 71.0-mile (114.3 km) route that offers excellent vantage points of this famous chalk figure.