The best traffic-free bike rides around Hawes

There are 6 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Hawes featured in this guide. These routes range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for cyclists.

The no-traffic touring routes around Hawes predominantly feature quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths. You can expect a landscape characterized by rolling hills, expansive pastures, meandering rivers, and iconic drystone walls, typical of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Some routes include challenging climbs over passes like Buttertubs, offering spectacular views.

Yes, several routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in Hawes. For example, the Bainbridge Village – Aysgarth Rock Garden loop from Hawes offers a moderate 35.7 km ride through picturesque Wensleydale. Another option is the challenging Arten Gill Viaduct – Arten Gill Viaduct loop from Hawes, covering 42.9 km with significant elevation.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by notable attractions. For instance, the Gayle Beck Waterfall in Hawes – Cam High Road (Roman Road) loop from Hawes takes you past the beautiful Gayle Beck Waterfall. You can also explore the area's natural beauty, including several waterfalls like Hull Pot, Low Force Waterfall (Force Gill), and Cautley Spout Waterfall. The routes also offer views of prominent peaks such as Whernside Summit and Great Shunner Fell Summit.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Arten Gill Viaduct – Arten Gill Viaduct loop from Hawes is a difficult 42.9 km route with over 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Buttertubs Pass – Thwaite Stone Bridge loop from Hawes, a 25 km route that includes the renowned Buttertubs Pass, known for its steep gradients and expansive vistas.

The no-traffic touring routes around Hawes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the quiet country lanes, the stunning Wensleydale scenery, and the sense of achievement after tackling the challenging climbs.

Yes, there are several moderate routes perfect for a more relaxed pace. The Askrigg village – Worton Bridge Path loop from Hawes is a moderate 21.2 km ride with gentle elevation, offering a pleasant journey through the local villages. Another moderate option is the Gayle Beck Waterfall in Hawes – Cam High Road (Roman Road) loop from Hawes, which is 15.9 km long.

The best time to cycle in Hawes is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. This period offers the most pleasant conditions for enjoying the scenic routes and avoiding the harsher winter weather of the Dales.

Yes, Hawes is well-equipped to support cyclists. Stage 1 Cycles in Hawes offers affordable bike hire, repairs, and guided tours, catering to both experienced cyclists and beginners. They also provide spares and can arrange bespoke tours, ensuring you have everything you need for your ride.

Hawes, being a market town and a popular base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, offers various parking options. There are public car parks available within the town, often near the main attractions like the Wensleydale Creamery or the Dales Countryside Museum. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees upon arrival.