The best MTB trails around Somerset

There are 10 mountain bike trails available around Somerset, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy and moderate routes to explore.

Somerset offers incredibly diverse terrain for mountain biking. You can expect everything from the challenging limestone ridges of the Mendip Hills to the rolling hills and woodlands of the Quantock Hills and Exmoor National Park. Trails navigate through varied forest terrain, along lakeside paths, and through parkland.

Yes, Somerset has several easy mountain bike trails. An example is the Bridges, Rusty Car and Lakeside Loop, an easy 4.8-mile (7.8 km) trail that takes about 40 minutes to complete, offering a scenic ride around a lakeside. Another easy option is the Fire Road North-South – Swansea Village Park loop from Swansea, which is 4.2 miles (6.7 km) through parkland.

For those seeking a longer, more challenging ride, moderate trails are available. The Freetown-Fall River State Forest – Intermediate Loop is a moderate 18.4-mile (29.7 km) path that navigates through varied forest terrain. Another good option is the Copicut Woods loop from Freetown-Fall River State Forest, which covers 21 miles (33.8 km) with significant elevation changes.

The mountain bike routes around Somerset are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 6 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to dense woodlands, and the variety of trails suitable for different ability levels.

Yes, the region offers several natural features and landmarks. You might encounter areas like Freetown Ledge, a natural monument, or ride through the scenic Copicut Woods. Some routes also pass through areas like Colt State Park, offering varied natural scenery.

Beyond the general region, specific areas like Swansea Village Park offer dedicated spaces for mountain biking. The broader Somerset region, including the Quantock Hills and Exmoor National Park, is well-regarded for its extensive trail networks.

Somerset's diverse landscapes make it suitable for mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially in wooded areas and on less-drained trails.

Yes, many of the trails around Somerset are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Bridges, Rusty Car and Lakeside Loop and the Fire Road North-South – Swansea Village Park loop from Swansea are both circular routes.

The elevation gain varies depending on the trail. Easy routes like the Bridges, Rusty Car and Lakeside Loop have minimal elevation, around 34 meters. Moderate trails, such as the Copicut Woods loop from Freetown-Fall River State Forest, can feature climbs of up to 177 meters, offering more of a workout.

Somerset is an excellent destination for mountain biking due to its remarkably diverse and picturesque landscapes. From the dramatic limestone ridges of the Mendip Hills to the rolling hills of the Quantocks and Exmoor, the county offers a wide range of terrain, including challenging singletracks, forest paths, and scenic lakeside routes, catering to various skill levels.