The best MTB trails around Ballingham
3.4
(29)
66
riders
9
rides
Mountain biking around Ballingham offers diverse terrain characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and river valleys. The region features a mix of established forest trails and scenic routes along waterways. Elevations are generally moderate, providing varied challenges for mountain bikers.
Best mountain bike trails around Ballingham
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Haugh Woods Loop — Wye Valley, a 12.1 miles (19.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route winds through the ancient Haugh Woods, offering a classic woodland riding experience.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Wilton Bridge – Hoarwithy Bridge loop from Brockhampton, a moderate 15.9 miles (25.6 km) path. This route explores the Wye Valley, combining riverside sections with climbs through the surrounding countryside.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Launch Pad Downhill Trail – Colliers Trail, Forest of Dean loop from Ross-on-Wye, a 31.4 miles (50.6 km) trail leading through the renowned Forest of Dean, often completed in about 3 hours 53 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Ballingham is defined by its varied woodlands, river valleys, and established trail networks like those in the Forest of Dean. The region offers a range of routes suitable for easy rides, moderate explorations, and more difficult challenges.
- The routes in Ballingham are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.7 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 50 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Ballingham's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 5, 2026
4.0
(6)
10
riders
19.5km
01:45
370m
370m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.5
(10)
12
riders
25.6km
01:38
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.
4.6
(12)
12
riders
27.5km
01:43
340m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.
9
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
2.0
(1)
5
riders
14.0km
01:17
270m
270m
Easy mountain bike ride.
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Tips from the Community
Couple of other reasons to have the bridge : To allow parishioners from “English Foy” (east bank, Hole‑in‑the‑Wall) to reach the church in “Welsh Foy” (west bank) without relying on the ferry. Local accounts also note a more down‑to‑earth reason: the pub was on the English side, and a reliable crossing made life easier for both locals and ferry‑boatmen.
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Lovely trail through the forest, a little dusty in places due to the recent weather.
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It is definitely worth looking at this wonderfully uniquely carved wooden bench.
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Fabulous and iconic Sandstone building, centrepiece of Ross on Wye.
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This is a particularly fine stretch of the river Wye, as recognized by the Wye Valley National Landscape. The stretched out village of Hoarwithy occupies the west bank, with its unusual Italianate St Catherine's church. The river is crossed by the old toll bridge with it's little Tollhouse - they stopped collecting tolls in the 1930's when the bridge was bought for public ownership.
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In the words of the National Tranport Trust - Wilton Bridge is an exceptionally fine red sandstone bridge. In 1597 an Act was passed authorising its construction. It was completed within the next 2 years. There are five semi- circular arches each with 3 ribs and massive cutwaters on each side, carried up and splayed back from the outer angle at parapet level forming semi-hexagonal refuges. At the point where the splay dies out is a moulded string which is mitred and carried up to the angle against the spandrils of the arches and then mitred and carried across to form a label above the arches. The voussoirs of the arches are chamfered and joggled and have various masons' marks. On the upstream side the bridge has been widened but now the parapet has been replaced by a wooden handrail. The South East approach to the bridge has been rebuilt in ashlar with 2 flights of stone steps to the river bank. The sundial, formerly in one of the refuges has disappeared, and only the base of the pedestal remains. All in all it is a fine bridge, and has done well to weather the floods that happen most winters - as evidenced by the erosion of even the top stones on the arches.
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As you climb out of Ross (or descend towards it), you get a fine view of the town from Brampton Street, especially when there is a slight mist in the air.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Ballingham?
There are 9 mountain bike trails documented in Ballingham on komoot. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.
Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Ballingham?
Yes, Ballingham offers several easy mountain bike trails. For instance, the Holy Rood Church, Mordiford – Woodford Dragon Trail loop from Mordiford is an excellent option, covering 8.7 miles (14 km) with moderate elevation changes, making it suitable for those new to mountain biking.
What are some challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders in Ballingham?
Experienced riders looking for a challenge can explore routes like the Launch Pad Downhill Trail – Colliers Trail, Forest of Dean loop from Ross-on-Wye. This difficult trail spans over 31 miles (50.6 km) and features significant elevation changes, offering a demanding ride through the renowned Forest of Dean.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Ballingham?
Many of the mountain bike routes in Ballingham are designed as loops. Popular options include the Haugh Woods Loop — Wye Valley, which is a 12.1-mile (19.5 km) moderate loop, and the Wilton Bridge – Hoarwithy Bridge loop from Brockhampton, a 15.9-mile (25.6 km) moderate route.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Ballingham's mountain bike trails?
Ballingham's mountain bike trails are characterized by diverse terrain, including rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic river valleys. You'll find a mix of established forest trails and routes along waterways, with generally moderate elevations that provide varied challenges.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Ballingham?
The mountain bike trails in Ballingham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied woodlands, river valleys, and well-established trail networks, particularly those in the Forest of Dean, for offering a range of experiences.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the mountain bike routes?
Yes, several routes pass by or are near interesting landmarks. For example, the Wilton Bridge – Hoarwithy Bridge loop from Brockhampton is close to Wilton Bridge. Other notable attractions in the region include Ross-on-Wye Market House and the Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails.
What is the typical duration for mountain bike rides in Ballingham?
The duration of mountain bike rides in Ballingham varies significantly depending on the trail and your pace. Shorter, easy routes like the Holy Rood Church, Mordiford – Woodford Dragon Trail loop from Mordiford can take around 1 hour 17 minutes, while longer, difficult trails such as the Launch Pad Downhill Trail – Colliers Trail, Forest of Dean loop from Ross-on-Wye might take nearly 4 hours to complete.
Are there mountain bike trails that offer scenic views or natural monuments?
Many trails in Ballingham traverse scenic areas. The Haugh Woods Loop — Wye Valley winds through ancient woodlands, and the region features natural monuments like Capler Camp Hillfort and the Swardon Quarry Viewpoint, which can be explored in conjunction with nearby routes.
Can I find mountain bike trails that are suitable for families in Ballingham?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations are not always explicit, easy-rated trails with shorter distances and less elevation are generally suitable for families. The Holy Rood Church, Mordiford – Woodford Dragon Trail loop from Mordiford is an easy option that could be enjoyed by families looking for a less strenuous ride.
Are there any trails that combine riverside riding with climbs?
Yes, the Wilton Bridge – Hoarwithy Bridge loop from Brockhampton is a great example. This moderate route explores the Wye Valley, offering a mix of picturesque riverside sections and climbs through the surrounding countryside, providing a varied riding experience.
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