The best traffic-free bike rides around Piethorne Reservoir

There are several excellent traffic-free gravel bike trails in the Piethorne Reservoir area, offering diverse experiences. Our guide features 4 carefully selected routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The terrain around Piethorne Reservoir is varied, perfect for gravel biking. You'll encounter extensive networks of trails, including sections of the Pennine Bridleway. Expect mixed-terrain surfaces with crushed gravel, double track, and some more technical sections. The routes often feature rolling hills and open moorland, providing both challenging climbs and scenic stretches.

Yes, the Piethorne Reservoir area offers traffic-free gravel trails suitable for different skill levels. While many routes are classified as moderate, there are also more difficult options for experienced riders seeking a greater challenge. For example, the Slaithwaite village and canal – View of Digley Reservoir loop from Marsden is rated difficult, while the Hollingworth Lake – Hollingworth Lake loop from Smithy Bridge offers a moderate experience.

Absolutely. Many of the traffic-free gravel routes around Piethorne Reservoir are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This is ideal for exploring the scenic landscapes without needing to retrace your steps. An example is the Rochdale Canal – Kay Lane Lock (Lock 64) loop from Rochdale, which offers a substantial circular ride.

The Piethorne Valley is rich in natural beauty. Along the trails, you'll encounter tranquil reservoirs like Piethorne, Ogden, Kitcliffe, Hanging Lees, and Norman Hill. The routes often provide panoramic views of these waters framed by rolling hills and expansive open moorland. You might also spot diverse wildlife, including various bird species, and pass through woodlands. The area also has remnants of its industrial past, including old mill sites.

While some trails can be technical, the extensive network around Piethorne Reservoir does offer sections that are more beginner-friendly and suitable for families, especially those with some cycling experience. Look for routes with gentler gradients and wider paths. Always check the route details and difficulty before heading out with children.

Parking is generally available at various access points around the Piethorne Reservoir area. Specific parking locations will depend on your chosen starting point for a particular route. It's advisable to check the details for your selected komoot Tour, as many will indicate suitable parking options nearby. For example, routes starting near towns like Rochdale or Marsden will have local parking facilities.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Piethorne Reservoir, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning scenery, the peaceful atmosphere of the reservoirs and moorland, and the joy of exploring varied terrain away from traffic. The sense of escape into nature is a frequently highlighted aspect.

While the immediate reservoir area is quite natural and secluded, you'll find cafes and pubs in nearby villages and towns. Depending on your route, you might pass through or near places like Smithy Bridge or Rochdale, which offer options for refreshments. It's a good idea to plan your route to include a stop if you're looking for a mid-ride break.

Spring and autumn are often considered ideal for gravel biking around Piethorne Reservoir, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. In spring, you'll see new growth, while autumn brings vibrant colours. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for potentially busier trails and warmer weather. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wet, and muddy conditions, especially on moorland sections.

Yes, it is possible to access the Piethorne Reservoir area using public transport, particularly if you plan your route carefully. Towns like Rochdale and Greenfield, which are starting points for some of the routes, have train stations or bus links. From these points, you can often connect to the trail network. For example, the Standedge Cutting – View of Diggle loop from Greenfield starts from a location with public transport access.