4.4
(277)
2,144
riders
150
rides
Mountain biking around Cliviger offers diverse terrain within the Pennines, characterized by the deep Cliviger Gorge, open moorland, and steep hillsides. The landscape features views of various reservoirs, providing a unique setting for outdoor pursuits. This area presents a mix of challenging trails and scenic routes, catering to different skill levels.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.9
(8)
64
riders
52.4km
04:41
1,080m
1,080m
This difficult 32.6-mile mountain biking loop in the South Pennines offers challenging terrain, open moorland, and reservoir views.
4.8
(9)
61
riders
40.0km
03:40
1,020m
1,020m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(9)
80
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
70
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(4)
10
riders
33.2km
02:36
680m
680m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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What inevitably catches the eye of passing cyclists here are the modern heirs of the beautiful historic windmills. Centuries ago, our ancestors were clever enough to harness the power of the wind for their own purposes, driving millstones and, for example, grinding grain into flour. Often placed in dozens throughout the landscape, this modern and unaesthetic variant—in the past, attention was paid to the architecture of each individual mill—serves to generate electricity. These wind farms are not without controversy, as their construction often lacks consideration for the landscape, and, above all, their slender blades can become death traps for birds.
0
0
Great section of double track. Gets a bit sketchy half way down if you’re flying!
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Nice cafe, plenty of choice on the menu, good coffee, indoor & outdoor seating
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0
Great cafe, popular for cyclist and walkers good atmosphere, eat in or out good choice of food you have got to try the salt and pepper chips.
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grass is slippery, quite a rocky path, but worth it at the top
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Cliviger offers a wide variety of mountain biking experiences, with over 150 routes available. These range from easier rides to challenging trails, ensuring options for all skill levels.
Yes, Cliviger has around 30 easy mountain bike trails. While specific beginner routes aren't listed here, these trails generally feature less elevation gain and smoother terrain, making them ideal for those new to mountain biking or looking for a more relaxed ride.
The terrain around Cliviger is diverse, characterized by the deep Cliviger Gorge, open moorland, and steep hillsides. You'll encounter rocky sections, especially on parts of the Pennine Bridleway, as well as scenic paths around reservoirs. The area offers a mix of challenging climbs and rewarding descents.
Many routes in Cliviger are designed as loops. For example, the Hurstwood Reservoir – Cant Clough Reservoir loop from St John the Evangelist is a moderate 28.8 km ride, and the Cant Clough Reservoir – Rodwell End Descent loop from St John the Evangelist offers a moderate 39.4 km option.
Cliviger is known for its dramatic landscapes. You'll experience panoramic views of the Cliviger Gorge, expansive open moorland, and picturesque reservoirs such as Hurstwood Reservoir and Cant Clough Reservoir. The Cold Clough Wind Farm also adds a distinctive element to the skyline visible from many trails.
Yes, Cliviger is close to several excellent mountain biking facilities. HAVOK Bike Park, situated on the edge of the Calder Valley, offers a variety of trails from beginner to technical descents. Additionally, Lee Quarry Trails near Bacup provides a network of challenging trails in an old quarry setting, featuring rocky landscapes and skills areas.
For longer rides, consider the Mary Towneley Loop, a challenging 52.4 km route through the South Pennines. Another option is the Pennine Bridleway Rocky Trail – Bodkin Lane loop from St John the Evangelist, which covers 40.0 km with significant elevation gains.
The mountain bike trails around Cliviger are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 270 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, challenging climbs, and the stunning views of the Cliviger Gorge and surrounding moorland.
Yes, several points of interest are accessible. You can find beautiful reservoirs like Watergrove Reservoir, Withens Clough Reservoir, and Clowbridge Reservoir. For a natural spectacle, Lumb Falls is also a notable highlight in the area.
The majority of mountain bike trails in Cliviger are rated as moderate, accounting for over 100 routes. There are also around 30 easy trails and a smaller number of difficult routes for experienced riders seeking a greater challenge.
Yes, the distinctive landscape around Cliviger includes views of wind farms. For instance, the Path Up Scout Moor – Scout Moor Wind Farm loop from Bacup Christ Church is a moderate 33.2 km route that offers views of the Scout Moor Wind Farm.


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