4.2
(24)
124
riders
21
rides
Mountain biking around Thirn offers access to the diverse and rugged terrain of North Yorkshire. The region is characterized by an agricultural landscape that transitions into the expansive Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors. This area provides a variety of trails, from tranquil rural paths to more challenging routes through varied natural features. The landscape includes byways and bridleways across rolling hills and moorland.
Last updated: October 11, 2026
2.0
(1)
4
riders
4.71km
00:28
140m
140m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(3)
17
riders
33.9km
02:37
630m
630m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.3
(3)
6
riders
17.7km
01:22
320m
320m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
48.0km
03:32
800m
800m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
23.5km
01:58
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A hidden gem and interesting story behind the construction of the Temple. Beautiful views and an interesting undulating walk through stunning countryside.
0
0
the drive to the temple was well worth it. You will find a cafe, and family area, before a short walk up to the temple. the set up of the rock formations is mind blowing, but very interesting. a big tick for me to visit again.
1
1
This isn't an actual temple, it's a 19th century folly created to provide employment for local people by the wealthy landowner William Danby. It's styled as a smaller version of Stone Henge and although only 200 years old it's still atmospheric and worth a visit.
0
0
Fabulous valley views looking down towards Helks Wood
0
0
This was the perfect spot for lunch on this walk, just over halfway round and after the climb. This is an interesting place, my kids loved exploring it and we stayed about an hour before moving on.
0
0
A quirky folly which is not a druid’s temple. It was built by the landowner during a time of hardship for the people of the village to give them some work to earn money.
0
1
Amazing nineteenth century folly.Styled after stone circles and well known prehistoric monuments such as Stonehenge. The Druids Temple was built to alleviate local unemployment, allowing William Danby, a wealthy landowner of the time to pay workers a shilling a day for their labour. At less than 200 years old, it is nonetheless an atmospheric and intriguing location. Despite its origin being common knowledge, myths and rumours of mystic practices have sprung up over its lifetime with tales of Devil worship and harrowing frights experienced by those who have spent the night. It's a bit spooky even in daylight hours!
1
0
There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Thirn, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes explore the agricultural landscapes, the rugged Yorkshire Dales, and rolling moorland tracks of North Yorkshire.
Yes, Thirn offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Swinton Bivouac loop — Yorkshire Dales is an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) route that provides a gentle introduction to the area's scenery.
Many of the trails around Thirn are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular option is the Leighton Reservoir loop from Masham, a moderate 21.1-mile (33.9 km) path that circles the scenic reservoir. Another is The Druid's Temple – Trapping Hill loop from Masham, an 11.0-mile (17.7 km) trail through varied terrain.
The terrain around Thirn is diverse, ranging from tranquil rural paths through agricultural land to more challenging routes across the rugged Yorkshire Dales and rolling moorland. You'll encounter a mix of byways and bridleways, with some trails featuring limestone characteristics in the wider North Yorkshire region.
Yes, several trails pass by interesting landmarks. For example, The Druid's Temple – Trapping Hill loop from Masham takes you past the historic Druid's Temple. Other nearby attractions include Middleham Castle and Hackfall Wood, which features a waterfall.
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most favorable conditions for mountain biking around Thirn, with milder weather and drier trails. However, the diverse landscape means trails can be enjoyed year-round, with winter rides offering a different, often more challenging, experience.
Yes, some routes are designed to pass by or start near local amenities. The Café The Square – Bordar House Teas, Masham loop from Masham is a moderate 30.9-mile (49.7 km) route that specifically highlights cafe stops in Masham, such as Masham Market Square and Bedale Market Town.
The mountain bike trails around Thirn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Riders often praise the diverse scenery, from tranquil agricultural paths to the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, and the variety of routes suitable for different skill levels.
While Thirn itself offers mostly easy to moderate trails, the wider North Yorkshire region, including areas like Swaledale and Arkengarthdale in the Yorkshire Dales, provides more challenging routes with technical features and significant climbs for advanced riders.
While Thirn is a rural village, some nearby towns like Masham, which serve as starting points for several trails, may have limited public transport options. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving to a suitable starting point with parking for easier access to the trailheads.
Parking is typically available in or near the villages that serve as starting points for the trails, such as Masham. For specific routes, it's recommended to check the individual route details on komoot for designated parking areas or suitable roadside parking options.
Many trails in the Thirn area and the broader North Yorkshire region offer excellent viewpoints. Routes like the Leighton Reservoir loop from Masham provide scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside, while trails in the North York Moors offer incredible vistas over rolling sandstone tracks.


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