The best MTB trails in Cookworthy Forest

There are 4 mountain bike trails listed in Cookworthy Forest, offering diverse experiences through the woodland and moorland.

The terrain in Cookworthy Forest features well-surfaced tracks and paths with generally gentle gradients. You'll ride through mixed coniferous woodland and open moorland, with many tracks being good, hard grit/gravel surfaces suitable for mountain bikes, e-bikes, or hybrid bikes with tires of 35mm or more.

Yes, the forest offers routes suitable for various skill levels, including beginner-friendly options. The generally gentle gradients and well-surfaced tracks make many paths accessible for those new to mountain biking.

Yes, the well-maintained and surfaced tracks with gentle gradients make many of the routes suitable for families. The varied landscapes and wildlife also add to the family-friendly experience.

Cookworthy Forest is generally dog-friendly, offering extensive tracks and open spaces for exploration. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around wildlife and other forest users.

Trail durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Holsworthy Church Lane – Ruby Way loop from Milton Damerel takes approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes, while the longer Mosaic Otter Sculpture – Pathway to Kinsale loop from Milton Damerel can take around 3 hours.

Yes, many of the routes in Cookworthy Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from Milton Damerel and the Forest Gravel Path – Barton Lane Leisure Barn loop from Milton Damerel.

Cookworthy Forest offers a blend of mixed woodlands, open moorland, and diverse wildlife. You might spot deer, foxes, badgers, and various bird species. Behind the Forest Centre, there are ponds and wildflower meadows designed to attract wildlife. The area also contains archaeological sites, such as Iron Age hillforts and Bronze Age barrows.

Yes, parking facilities are available, typically near the Cookworthy Forest Centre, providing convenient access to the trail network.

While the forest itself is primarily natural, the surrounding Ruby Country area offers amenities. You can find cafes and pubs in nearby villages and towns, such as Milton Damerel, which serve as starting points for several routes.

Cookworthy Forest is suitable for mountain biking year-round due to its well-maintained and surfaced tracks. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the hard grit/gravel surfaces remain rideable, though conditions may be wetter.

The unique aspect of mountain biking in Cookworthy Forest lies in its extensive network of trails through 400 acres of mixed coniferous woodland and open moorland. The combination of varied landscapes, well-maintained tracks, and the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife provides a distinct outdoor experience in Devon's Ruby Country.