The best traffic-free bike rides around Ribble Valley

There are over 25 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in the Ribble Valley, offering a diverse range of experiences from easy loops to challenging ascents. These routes are carefully curated to keep you away from busy roads, utilizing quiet country lanes, forest tracks, and bridleways.

The Ribble Valley offers a varied topography perfect for gravel biking. You'll find everything from gentle riverside paths along the River Ribble to challenging climbs through rolling hills and expansive moorland. Routes often combine quiet tarmac sections with off-road forest tracks and bridleways, providing a true gravel experience.

Yes, the Ribble Valley has options for beginners. An excellent easy route is the Stocks Reservoir and Gisburn Forest loop. This route explores the scenic reservoir within Gisburn Forest, offering a relatively flat and enjoyable ride suitable for those new to gravel biking.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in the Ribble Valley, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, but be prepared for potentially busier trails. While winter riding is possible, some higher or more exposed routes, especially in areas like the Forest of Bowland, can be challenging due to wet conditions or snow.

Many of the no-traffic gravel routes in the Ribble Valley are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the challenging Bowland Knotts Climb – The 8 – Swoopy Section loop from Tosside offers a substantial circular ride through the stunning Forest of Bowland.

Absolutely! The Ribble Valley is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You might pass by the iconic Trig point at Longridge Fell summit offering panoramic views, or the tranquil Confluence of the Rivers Calder and Ribble. The Trough of Bowland Pass also provides spectacular vistas, often incorporated into longer routes.

The Ribble Valley's no-traffic gravel routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 24 reviews. Riders frequently praise the stunning, varied landscapes, the peacefulness of the car-free trails, and the sense of adventure found on routes through areas like the Forest of Bowland.

Yes, experienced riders will find plenty of challenging no-traffic gravel routes. The Ribble Valley features 19 difficult routes, many with significant elevation gain. An example is the Trough of Bowland Viewpoint loop from Dunsop Bridge, which offers nearly 800 meters of climbing and takes you through rugged, remote landscapes.

While many routes start from villages with some public transport links, direct access to the more remote no-traffic gravel trails can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus or train services to towns like Clitheroe or Settle, and then plan your ride from there, potentially incorporating quieter roads to reach the trailheads.

For families, the quieter sections of Gisburn Forest, such as the Stocks Reservoir loop, are often suitable. These routes tend to be less technical and offer a safe, traffic-free environment for riders of all ages. Always check the route difficulty and terrain before heading out with children.

Parking is typically available in or near the starting points of many routes, often in villages or designated car parks within areas like Gisburn Forest. For example, routes starting near Settle or Dunsop Bridge usually have parking facilities. Always check specific route details for recommended parking locations.