The best traffic-free bike rides in Dartmoor

Komoot offers over 20 no-traffic gravel bike routes in Dartmoor, ranging from moderate to difficult. This includes 14 moderate and 6 difficult routes, ensuring options for various skill levels looking for quiet rides.

While many routes in Dartmoor are moderate to difficult due to the varied terrain, there is at least one easy route available. For families or beginners, look for routes with less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. The region's disused railway lines and forest roads often provide gentler options away from traffic.

Dartmoor's no-traffic gravel routes wind through a stunning array of natural features. You'll encounter expansive open moorlands, dramatic granite tors like Haytor Rocks and Bellever Tor, and deep, secluded river valleys with fast-flowing rivers. Keep an eye out for ancient oak woodlands and the iconic Dartmoor ponies roaming freely.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in Dartmoor are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the moderate South Hessary Tor – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Princetown, which offers a great experience without needing a shuttle.

Dartmoor is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially on the open moorland where Dartmoor ponies and livestock graze. Some routes may pass through areas requiring dogs to be on a lead. Always check local signage and respect wildlife and farm animals.

Beyond the natural beauty, Dartmoor is rich in history. Along or near the trails, you can discover Bronze Age settlements, ancient stone rows, and picturesque clapper bridges. Notable tors like Hound Tor and Yes Tor summit are popular points of interest. Consider the Nun's Cross (Siward's Cross) – Leather Tor Clapper Bridge loop from Shaugh Prior for a route that passes historical markers.

Yes, Dartmoor's river valleys can offer beautiful cascades, especially after rain. The Lydia Bridge Waterfall – Avon Dam Reservoir loop from South Brent is a more challenging route that specifically highlights a waterfall, providing a scenic reward for your effort.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Dartmoor, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but be prepared for potentially busier periods. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder, wetter conditions, and some sections may become very boggy.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Dartmoor, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 37 reviews. Riders often praise the sense of wildness and solitude on the open moorlands, the challenge of the varied terrain, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and natural landmarks away from vehicle traffic.

Many trailheads and popular starting points for Dartmoor's gravel routes, especially those leading onto the open moor or into forest areas, have designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information, but options are generally available near towns and villages bordering the National Park, such as Princetown or Okehampton.

Dartmoor's gravel trails offer a diverse and often challenging terrain. You'll encounter everything from open moorland tracks and disused railway lines to forest roads and military tracks. Surfaces can vary from well-packed gravel to rougher, rocky sections, and even some technical descents. Be prepared for significant elevation changes and potentially boggy ground in wetter conditions.