The best MTB trails around Hilldale

There are nearly 50 mountain bike trails around Hilldale, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

Mountain biking around Hilldale primarily follows the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, featuring relatively flat terrain with low elevation gains. The landscape includes waterways, open countryside, and some gentle inclines, particularly towards areas like Rivington. The trails are characterized by canal towpaths and rural settings.

Yes, Hilldale offers a good selection of easy mountain bike trails, with 25 routes classified as easy. A great option for beginners is the Burscough Wharf – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Burscough Junction, an easy 13.0-mile (20.9 km) path that explores the canal and the Burscough Wharf area.

While the region is known for its relatively flat canal paths, some routes offer more moderate challenges. For instance, The Millhouse Pub – S loop from Eccleston is a moderate 25.8-mile (41.5 km) route with over 330 meters of elevation gain, providing a more demanding ride.

The canal towpaths and rural trails around Hilldale are generally accessible year-round. However, spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though some paths might be muddier after rain.

Many of the mountain bike routes in Hilldale are designed as loops. For example, the popular Wigan Pier – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Burscough Junction is a 22.9-mile (36.9 km) circular trail following the historic canal.

Along the trails, you can discover various points of interest. Highlights include the historic Eyes Lane Metal Bridge, the charming Croston Stone Cross and Village Centre, and natural areas like Yarrow Valley Country Park and Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall.

Yes, the region features several lakes and water bodies. You can find Yarrow Valley Country Park, which includes water features, and the Martin Mere Wetland Centre. Other notable spots include Orrell Water Park and Lower Kem Mill Pond.

The trails in Hilldale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the scenic canal towpaths, the relatively flat and accessible terrain suitable for various skill levels, and the peaceful rural landscapes.

Absolutely. Many of the trails, especially those along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, are relatively flat and well-suited for families. With 25 easy routes available, you'll find plenty of gentle paths. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal – Gathurst Climb loop from Skelmersdale is an easy 14.9-mile (23.9 km) route that offers a pleasant ride for families.

Yes, given the canal-side nature of many routes, you'll often find pubs and eateries in nearby villages and towns. For example, the route The Millhouse Pub – S loop from Eccleston suggests a pub directly in its name, indicating that such establishments are integrated into the local cycling experience.

Parking is typically available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for the trails, such as Burscough Junction, Coppull, Eccleston, and Skelmersdale. Many canal access points also have small car parks. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations.