The best MTB trails around Sheepstor

There are 10 mountain bike trails around Sheepstor listed in this guide, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 6 easy routes and 4 moderate routes, ensuring options for both beginners and more experienced riders.

Yes, Sheepstor offers several easy routes perfect for families and beginners. The area around Burrator Reservoir is particularly suitable. For example, the Burrator Reservoir – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Meavy is an easy 10.4 km path with gentle gradients, ideal for a relaxed ride.

The terrain around Sheepstor is diverse, characterized by rugged granite tors, expansive open moorland, and secluded woodlands. Many routes incorporate the scenic banks of Burrator Reservoir. You'll encounter a mix of waterside paths, moorland tracks, and sections of the historic Princetown railway path, which can be mostly flat but also include rocky, challenging parts.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Sheepstor are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Burrator Reservoir and Dam – View of Burrator Reservoir loop from Meavy, which is a 24.3 km moderate trail offering expansive views.

Mountain biking around Sheepstor is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on the moorland sections, and shorter daylight hours.

The mountain bike trails in Sheepstor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning views of Burrator Reservoir, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from easy loops to more challenging moorland adventures.

Yes, the area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the impressive Burrator Reservoir, explore rugged granite tors like Sheepstor, and discover prehistoric remains scattered across the moorland. The landscape was also a filming location for Steven Spielberg's "War Horse," adding a touch of cinematic history to your ride.

Absolutely. Routes like the easy 16.1 km Nun's Cross (Siward's Cross) – South Hessary Tor loop from Sheepstor allow you to venture onto the open moorland, offering a sense of wildness and expansive views of Dartmoor's rugged terrain.

For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the Princetown Railway Track – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Meavy is a moderate 38.9 km route. It combines sections of the old Princetown railway path with extensive riding around Burrator Reservoir, featuring significant elevation changes.

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not listed here, Burrator Reservoir, a central feature of many routes, has several car parks available around its perimeter. Princetown, another common starting point for trails in the wider area, also offers parking facilities. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments in the villages surrounding the trails. Meavy, for instance, is a village often featured in route descriptions and may offer local pubs or cafes. Princetown, a larger village nearby, also has facilities where you can refuel after your ride.

Public transport options to Sheepstor itself are limited due to its rural location within Dartmoor National Park. However, you can often find bus services to larger nearby towns like Tavistock or Plymouth, from which you might need to arrange further transport or cycle to the trailheads. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.