4.3
(7)
400
riders
Freeminers Trail
01:04
11.6km
180m
Mountain biking
Get ready for a dynamic mountain biking experience on the Freeminers Trail, a moderate route spanning 7.2 miles (11.6 km) with 580 feet (177 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this ride in about 1 hour and 3 minutes. The trail winds through beautiful woodland, offering a mix of natural and man-made features that keep things interesting. You'll encounter challenging singletrack, including tricky switchback climbs, rooty drops, and tight descents. A highlight is the thrilling 'Boneyard descent,' a red-graded section known for its flowy corners and faster berms.
The Freeminers Trail is conveniently located in the Forest of Dean, close to Gloucester, making it easily accessible for a day trip. A great starting point with amenities is the Pedalabikeaway Café & Bike Shop, where you can prepare for your ride. Be aware that natural roots on the trail can become particularly slippery when wet, so plan your visit accordingly to ensure a safer ride. However, the ground generally maintains good grip even in damp conditions, offering some resilience to varied weather.
This route is particularly popular among proficient mountain bikers who appreciate its natural feel and varied features. It stands out in the Forest of Dean for its demanding sections, including navigating through trees on uneven ground and tackling hairpin bends. The trail's design ensures constant focus is required, making it a rewarding challenge for those looking to push their skills. It's a prime example of the diverse and engaging mountain biking opportunities available in the region.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
62 m
Pedalabikeaway Café & Bike Shop
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
1.00 km
Rooty Section on Freeminers Red Trail
Highlight • Trail
Pick your line carefully going through here, although you might not get much time to, as it's pretty fast too!
Tip by
1.33 km
Rock Garden – Freeminers Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
1.61 km
Freeminers Red Route Tabletops
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
2.61 km
Freeminers Trail
Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
Tip by
11.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
10.1 km
937 m
393 m
169 m
Surfaces
7.19 km
1.74 km
1.56 km
900 m
169 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 6 May
15°C
4°C
31 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Freeminers Trail?
The most common starting point for the trail is at the Pedalabikeaway Cycle Centre. You'll find ample parking there, along with facilities like a café and bike shop. You can find more information about the center here: Pedalabikeaway Café & Bike Shop.
Is the Freeminers Trail suitable for beginners?
No, the Freeminers Trail is rated as a red-graded trail, meaning it's designed for proficient mountain bikers with good off-roading skills. It features technical elements like steep climbs, descents, rooty drops, rock gardens, and tight switchbacks that require constant focus and precision. Beginners might find it too challenging.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?
The trail offers a natural feel, winding through woodland with challenging singletrack. You'll encounter a mix of natural features like roots and rock gardens, tight descents, hairpin bends, and tricky switchback climbs. There are also man-made features such as boardwalks, tabletop jumps, and berms. Be prepared for very variable surfaces, especially when wet, though the ground generally offers good grip.
Are there different route options or loops for this trail?
Yes, the Freeminers Trail has evolved to offer multiple loop options. You can choose from a short loop (6.1km), a long loop (11.3km), or an extended Adit loop (17.3km), allowing you to tailor your ride length to your preference.
When is the best time of year to ride the Freeminers Trail?
The trail can be ridden year-round, but conditions vary. While the ground offers good grip even when damp, natural roots can become particularly slippery after rain. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, but always check local weather conditions before you go.
Is the Freeminers Trail dog-friendly?
Generally, dogs are welcome in the Forest of Dean, but specific trail rules can vary. On shared-use trails like this, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a leash, to ensure the safety of other riders and wildlife. Always clean up after your dog.
Are there any permits or fees required to ride in the Forest of Dean?
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access and ride the mountain biking trails within the Forest of Dean, including the Freeminers Trail. However, there may be charges for parking at trailheads like Pedalabikeaway.
What are some notable features or sections along the route?
The trail is known for its natural feel and varied features. You'll encounter sections like the Rooty Section on Freeminers Red Trail and the challenging Rock Garden – Freeminers Trail. Look out for the Freeminers Red Route Tabletops. A significant recent addition is the 'Boneyard descent,' a thrilling red-graded downhill section over 1km long with flowy corners and bigger berms.
Does the Freeminers Trail connect with other mountain biking routes?
Yes, the route primarily follows the Freeminers trail (82%) but also passes through sections of the Verderers (79%), Launchpad (18%), and GBU (14%) trails, among others. This allows for varied riding experiences and connections to other parts of the Forest of Dean's trail network.
What skills should I have before attempting this trail?
Given its red grading, you should be a proficient mountain biker with good off-roading skills. Be comfortable with technical elements such as tree roots, drop-offs, large rocks, and tight turns. The trail demands constant focus, and you should be able to handle steep climbs and descents, as well as features like jumps and berms at controlled speeds.
Are there any facilities or amenities available near the trailhead?
Yes, the main trailhead at Pedalabikeaway Cycle Centre offers excellent facilities. You'll find a café for refreshments, a bike shop for repairs or gear, and restrooms. It's a great place to start and finish your ride.