The best MTB trails around Bolton

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Bolton, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes through expansive moorland, along reservoir-side paths, and within wooded hillsides.

You can expect varied terrain, from open heather-covered uplands and peat bogs to mixed woodland and valleys. Many trails, especially around Rivington, are stone-based, making them suitable for all-weather riding. Areas like Smithills Country Park feature rugged, rocky descents, while Moses Gate Country Park offers purpose-built bike park facilities with jumps and berms.

Bolton caters to a wide range of skill levels. You'll find 5 easy routes, 22 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes. This includes everything from gentle loops around reservoirs to challenging downhill sections and technical singletracks, such as those found around Rivington Pike.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Chocolate Factory Coffee House – Orton Scar Café loop from Crosby Ravensworth is a moderate trail that families with some experience might enjoy. The Rivington Cycle Route is also known for being family-friendly, passing landmarks like Liverpool Castle and Rivington Hall Barn.

The mountain bike routes in Bolton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 600 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic beauty of the West Pennine Moors and the diverse trail options.

Many of the mountain bike trails around Bolton are designed as circular routes, especially those that loop around the numerous reservoirs in the West Pennine Moors, such as Upper Rivington and Anglezarke Reservoirs. For example, the Descent from Murton to Appleby – Post Box Pantry loop from Great Ormside is a popular circular option.

The trails offer stunning views across the West Pennine Moors. You can encounter prominent hills like Murton Pike and Dufton Pike, as well as scenic reservoirs such as Wayoh, Turton and Entwistle, Upper Rivington, and Anglezarke. The Rutter Force Waterfall – Track to Ormside Mill loop from Appleby-in-Westmorland also features a beautiful waterfall.

Yes, the region blends historical heritage with natural beauty. You can find remnants of ancient stone walls and packhorse bridges. Notable historical sites include Lowther Castle and Brougham Hall. The Rivington Terraced Gardens, built by Lord Leverhulme, also offer fantastic views and historical interest.

Bolton's mountain biking trails, particularly those around Rivington, are often stone-based, which makes them suitable for riding in most seasons. While spring and summer offer pleasant weather and lush scenery, the robust nature of many trails means you can enjoy them even in wetter conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, the area around Bolton and the West Pennine Moors has various options. You can find cafes and pubs, especially in villages and towns close to popular trailheads. For example, the Descent from Murton to Appleby – Post Box Pantry loop from Great Ormside mentions the Post Box Pantry, and the Chocolate Factory Coffee House – Orton Scar Café loop from Crosby Ravensworth includes coffee house stops.

While some areas are more accessible by car, Bolton itself has good public transport links. From Bolton, you can often find bus services that connect to towns and villages on the fringes of the West Pennine Moors, which may provide access points to various trails. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules is recommended.