Highlight • Viewpoint
View of South Head
Mountain biking
4.9
(140)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
Cycling is not permitted at this location
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
August 22, 2018
Mountain biking
November 26, 2020
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of South Head
4.7
(117)
725
riders
22.9km
02:28
750m
740m
The Jacob's Ladder and Lord's Seat loop offers a challenging mountain biking experience in the Peak District National Park. This difficult 14.2-mile (22.9 km) route features significant climbing and technical descents, with an elevation gain of 2450 feet (747 metres) that you can expect to complete in about 2 hours and 28 minutes. You will encounter diverse terrain, from gravel and grassy ruts to rocky paths, loose rock gardens, and even boggy moorland sections, especially in wet conditions. The trail boasts magnificent 360-degree panoramic views, particularly from Lord's Seat, where you can see expansive vistas over the Edale and Hope Valleys. Expect high-moorland singletrack and weathered gritstone outcrops, providing quintessential Peak District landscapes.
This loop is consistently rated as hard to very hard, requiring good fitness and advanced riding skills. You should be prepared for tough, challenging climbs and physical descents that demand your full attention; some portions may even require pushing your bike. The trail's natural, rugged character means conditions can change with loose rocks and flowing water, so check the weather before you go. While the research doesn't explicitly mention trailhead access, parking, or public transport, it does highlight that some sections, like Rushup Edge, can be a slog when wet, suggesting dry conditions are preferable.
Considered one of the best mountain bike trails in the UK, this loop is a classic Peak District ride. Its most notable feature is the iconic Jacob's Ladder descent, a steep, rocky, and technical section often cited as the best descent in the Peak District. The route also includes Rushup Edge and Roych Clough, offering a mix of challenging climbing and fun, technical downhill sections. Lord's Seat is not only a high point with exceptional views but also an ancient tumulus, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty.
4.3
(9)
81
riders
39.2km
03:44
1,030m
1,030m
Embark on the Great North Trail: Kinder Scout Loop, a difficult mountain biking adventure spanning 24.4 miles (39.2 km) with a significant 3379 feet (1030 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging route, estimated to take around 3 hours and 44 minutes, immerses you in the diverse landscapes of the Peak District, from rolling farmlands to stark moorland. You will encounter rough, rocky sections and potentially boggy areas, especially as you traverse the Kinder Scout plateau, offering dramatic views including the impressive Kinder Downfall after heavy rains.
This route is specifically designed for mountain bikes, utilizing existing bridleways and parts of the Pennine Bridleway. Be prepared for highly varied terrain and demanding conditions; some sections, like Cave Dale, can be particularly challenging if the weather is not on your side. Plan your visit with adequate preparation, ensuring you have the right gear and experience for a ride of this intensity. While no specific permits or fees are mentioned, always check local conditions before you head out.
The Great North Trail: Kinder Scout Loop stands out for its expansive vistas and the unique experience of riding across the iconic Kinder Scout. You will journey through a landscape that shifts from green valleys to bleak, exposed moorland, providing a true test of your mountain biking skills. The trail offers a rewarding sense of accomplishment as you navigate its varied surfaces and take in panoramic views from high points like Mam Tor.
21
riders
23.7km
02:00
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Details
Informations
Elevation 430 m
Weather
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Sunday 12 July
21°C
11°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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