The best traffic-free bike rides around Austwick

There are 8 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes around Austwick, offering a variety of distances and challenges for racebike enthusiasts.

The routes around Austwick feature quiet country lanes and smooth tarmac, characteristic of the Yorkshire Dales. You can expect rewarding climbs and descents, with stunning views of the fells and limestone scenery. Routes like the Bowland Knotts Climb – Cross of Greet Climb loop offer significant elevation changes.

Yes, Austwick offers several challenging routes. For instance, the Henside Road Near Malham Tarn – Malham Cove Climb loop is a difficult route covering over 66 km with more than 1200 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Stainforth Force waterfall – Malham Cove Climb loop.

The routes often pass through dramatic limestone scenery, including exposed pavements and white rock formations. You can also encounter impressive natural features such as the Catrigg Force Waterfall and Baxenghyll Gorge Waterfall. The iconic Ribblehead Viaduct and the Three Peaks (Ingleborough, Pen-y-ghent, Whernside) are also prominent in the wider region.

Many of the routes around Austwick are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Bowland Knotts Climb – View of the Forest of Bowland loop and the View of the Forest of Bowland – Keasden Crossroads loop, providing convenient circular options for your ride.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in Austwick, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 64 ratings. Cyclists frequently praise the quiet roads, stunning Dales scenery, and the rewarding climbs that characterize the area.

The best times for road cycling in Austwick are typically late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is generally mild, and there are fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable ride on the quiet roads.

Yes, the area is rich in landmarks. You might encounter geological wonders like the Hull Pot or the unique Norber Erratics. The region is also known for its dramatic gorges, such as Trow Gill, offering diverse points of interest along or near your ride.

The duration varies depending on the route and your pace. Moderate routes like the View of the Forest of Bowland – Keasden Crossroads loop can take around 1 hour 40 minutes for a 33 km ride, while more difficult and longer routes, such as the Henside Road Near Malham Tarn – Malham Cove Climb loop, can extend to over 3 hours 30 minutes.

Absolutely. Austwick offers several moderate routes perfect for intermediate riders. The Bowland Knotts Climb – View of the Forest of Bowland loop is a great option, covering nearly 46 km with over 600 meters of elevation gain, providing a rewarding ride without being overly strenuous.