The best traffic-free bike rides around Grisedale Tarn
4.7
(103)
5,700
riders
8
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Grisedale Tarn are situated within the dramatic mountain scenery of the Lake District, featuring rugged peaks and lush woodlands. The area offers a diverse landscape for road cycling, with routes winding through forests and providing views of distant fells. Cyclists can expect significant elevation changes across mostly well-paved surfaces, suitable for various fitness levels. The region is characterized by its tranquil tarns, such as Grisedale Tarn itself, and the extensive Grizedale Forest.
Best no…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
9
riders
19.0km
01:01
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
16
riders
86.7km
04:48
1,790m
1,790m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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10
riders
12.0km
00:40
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
8.76km
00:31
220m
220m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
66
riders
10.5km
00:47
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Grisedale Tarn
Tips from the Community
In Elterwater and its surroundings, it is good for cycling. There are cycle routes through the village, including to Ambleside and Coniston.
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Blea Tarn, a small mountain lake in a valley between Little Langdale and Great Langdale, offers a wide variety of photographic opportunities.
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Kirkstone Pass, at 454 metres (1,489 feet), is the highest mountain pass in the Lake District that is open to vehicular traffic. It is a gorgeous pass, flanked by Red Screes and St Ravens Edge. It connects Ambleside via 'The Struggle' to Patterdale. It also connects Troutbeck to Patterdale on the A592, though this is closed due to a landslide at the moment (May 2026). The pub is great and normally opens at midday on weekdays, and there is a large public car park just across the road. This can be a great starting point for a variety of treks, but you are in for a sharp, stiff ascent to start off with whichever flanking hill you decide to ascend.
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Stunning area to cycle in, can get very busy in high season though
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It’s a hard ride up if you’re not used to it, but it’s worth it to THUNDER down the other side 👍🤣
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All I can say is, it's spectacular and challenging by car, bike, or motorcycle! Just be careful, the road is narrow, and unfortunately, there are always some crazy people who think they're the only ones on the road! Don't stress, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the outdoors! But it's not called "STRUGGLE" for nothing!
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Plenty of places to grab some food and buy some hiking gear or shoes for your doggo
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free road cycling routes are available around Grisedale Tarn?
There are 9 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes around Grisedale Tarn, offering a variety of distances and challenges for road cyclists.
What is the range of difficulty for traffic-free road cycling routes near Grisedale Tarn?
You'll find a good mix of routes to suit different fitness levels. There are 4 easy routes, 3 moderate options, and 2 more difficult challenges for experienced cyclists.
Are there family-friendly traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for all ages?
Yes, several routes are suitable for families. For an easier ride, consider the Chapel Stile Climb – Elterwater Cycling Routes loop from Grasmere, which is 12 km long and has minimal elevation gain.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these traffic-free road cycling routes?
The routes offer diverse scenery, from tranquil tarns and dramatic mountain backdrops to winding paths through Grizedale Forest. You'll experience the rugged beauty of the Lake District, with views of fells and woodlands.
Are there any circular traffic-free road cycling routes around Grisedale Tarn?
Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An excellent option is the Grasmere Lake – Rydal Water loop from Grasmere, which is a scenic 35 km ride.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the traffic-free routes in this area?
The komoot community highly rates the routes around Grisedale Tarn, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 91 ratings. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural beauty, the quiet roads, and the rewarding views after climbs.
Are there any challenging traffic-free road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For a significant challenge, the Chapel Stile Climb – Little Langdale Tarn Road loop from Grasmere is a difficult 86 km route with substantial elevation gain, perfect for those seeking a demanding ride.
What is the best season for traffic-free road cycling around Grisedale Tarn?
Spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions with cooler temperatures and beautiful seasonal colours. Summer can be lovely, but be prepared for potentially busier periods and warmer weather. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or food along these routes?
Many routes pass through or near charming Lake District villages like Grasmere and Ambleside, where you can find cafes, pubs, and shops to refuel and relax. The region is well-equipped with amenities for visitors.
What kind of road surfaces can I expect on these routes?
The routes primarily feature well-paved surfaces suitable for road bikes. However, as is common in the Lake District, some segments might include older tarmac or occasional rougher patches, so a robust road bike is recommended.
Can I find routes that offer significant elevation for a good workout?
Yes, the Lake District is known for its hills! Routes like the Bridge House, Ambleside – Kirkstone Pass loop from Red Screes offer over 400 meters of elevation gain in just 10 km, providing a challenging climb and rewarding views.
Most popular routes around Grisedale Tarn
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