4.5
(351)
2,376
riders
113
rides
Mountain biking around King Sterndale offers access to diverse terrain within the Peak District. The area features striking limestone hills and dales, including the unique profiles of Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill. Riders can expect varied surfaces, from ancient packhorse routes to challenging sections with rocky features and steep gradients. This geological variety provides a range of natural trails for mountain bikers.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.3
(7)
27
riders
44.8km
04:02
1,120m
1,120m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
3.7
(3)
14
riders
49.9km
04:12
1,100m
1,100m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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3.8
(5)
19
riders
16.2km
01:17
340m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
12
riders
30.2km
02:13
600m
600m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
21.5km
01:30
300m
300m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular on MTB, but a lot of hike-a-bike when on a Gravel bike.
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Get ready for a bit of an incline 🤣
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Brilliant long technical decent . Great fun and completely doable on a mountain bike . Worth stopping to admire the waterfall if your adrenaline allows you too 😜
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Nice waterfall near the bridge
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One of the western part of Peak District greatest treasure. Ideally to be ridden ona proper fatty tyres but still doable on a gravel bike (maybe less fun 😉)
1
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Most tips here have it nailed. It is well known in the local MTB community but for any modern mountain bike it is not challenging. Annoyingly, it always seems to throw up a big rock at my frame though :)
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Cycling Tour from Castleton - Hope - Edale Peak District Waldemar Tour https://youtu.be/9ZBNQMo5rxk
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There are over 100 mountain bike trails around King Sterndale, offering a wide range of experiences. The komoot community has mapped 114 routes in the area, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, King Sterndale offers options for less experienced riders and families. There are 12 easy mountain bike routes available. Additionally, the region boasts popular traffic-free trails like the Monsal Trail and the Tissington Trail, which are ideal for touring cyclists and families seeking gentler, accessible routes through stunning landscapes.
Experienced mountain bikers will find plenty of challenging terrain. There are 14 difficult routes, featuring significant elevation gain, rocky surfaces, steep gradients, and technical features. The trails often follow ancient packhorse routes, providing an authentic mountain biking experience with exposed roots and varying surfaces. For example, the Cumberland Clough Trail – Charity Lane loop from Buxton is a demanding route through varied Peak District landscapes.
The area around King Sterndale is rich in natural beauty and unique geological formations. You can encounter striking limestone hills like Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill, often called the 'Dragon's Back'. Deep dales such as Deep Dale offer dramatic scenery. You might also spot the Monsal Dale Weir or the impressive Headstone Viaduct on some routes.
Yes, the region has several beautiful waterfalls. You can find highlights such as Deep Clough Waterfall and Cumberland Clough Waterfall. The Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is another picturesque spot worth visiting.
The mountain bike trails around King Sterndale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the authentic natural trails, and the stunning views of the Peak District's limestone hills and dales. The variety of routes, from challenging climbs to scenic dales, is a frequently highlighted aspect.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Overflow at Errwood Reservoir – Errwood Reservoir loop from Buxton, which takes you through the scenic Errwood Reservoir area. Another option is the Pennine Bridleway Gravel Track – Deep Dale loop from Buxton.
The Peak District, including the King Sterndale area, offers great mountain biking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially on higher ground and natural trails.
King Sterndale's proximity to Buxton means many routes start from or pass through Buxton, where various parking options are available. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check individual route details on komoot for designated parking areas or nearby facilities.
Buxton, being a major hub near King Sterndale, offers good public transport links, including bus and train services. Many mountain bike routes are accessible from Buxton, making it a convenient starting point if you're relying on public transport. From Buxton, you can often cycle to the trailheads or use local bus services to reach more remote starting points.
Absolutely. The area has 88 moderate difficulty routes, many of which provide excellent views. For instance, the Errwood Reservoir – The Gape Valley loop from Buxton offers scenic vistas as it winds through the landscape. These trails often traverse the limestone dales, providing panoramic views of the surrounding Peak District countryside.


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