4.6
(90)
559
riders
61
rides
Mountain biking around Bolton, located in Greater Manchester, UK, offers diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is characterized by its proximity to the West Pennine Moors, providing extensive natural landscapes and hilly areas. Riders can explore routes around several reservoirs, including Upper Rivington Reservoir, and through various green spaces and parklands. The landscape features a mix of open views, wooded sections, and established trail systems.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(13)
22
riders
24.3km
01:41
140m
140m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(7)
46
riders
37.0km
02:41
530m
530m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.9
(7)
42
riders
23.1km
01:30
180m
180m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
35
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
22
riders
18.2km
01:28
250m
250m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
riders
19.6km
01:33
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
11
riders
61.2km
03:42
310m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
22
riders
41.4km
02:45
450m
450m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
21
riders
24.9km
01:55
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
riders
15.4km
01:18
310m
300m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Roe Green Loopline is a former 19th-century railway branch line in Salford, Greater Manchester, opened in 1870 by the London and North Western Railway to connect Eccles and Tyldesley with Bolton via Walkden. Originally serving local collieries, it carried passengers until the 1950s and closed in 1969, later becoming a popular 7.2km, traffic-free walking and cycling greenway.
1
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Click here for the menu https://thestrawburyduck.co.uk/
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The path around the reservoir is very beautiful. Many runners and dog owners with their four-legged friends are out and about here.
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Tip:Avoid the Ice Cream Run!….. unless you are very compétant.
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Bolton offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with over 60 routes available for exploration. These range from easy rides suitable for beginners to more challenging routes for experienced riders.
Yes, Bolton has 23 easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Bridgewater Way and Cutacre Park Loop, which offers a mix of canal paths and park trails.
While there are no routes explicitly graded as 'difficult', Bolton features 38 moderate mountain bike trails that provide a good challenge. Routes like the View of Anglezarke Reservoir – Roddlesworth Reservoirs loop from Horwich Parkway offer longer distances and significant elevation changes.
Mountain biking around Bolton offers diverse landscapes, from the open moorlands of the West Pennine Moors to scenic reservoir paths around Upper Rivington, Anglezarke, and Entwistle Reservoirs. You'll also find routes through green spaces and parklands, providing a mix of natural beauty and varied terrain.
Many of Bolton's mountain bike trails are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Upper Rivington Reservoir – Horrobin Embankment loop from Lostock and the Clifton Viaduct – Philips Park Red Route loop from St Matthew's Church.
The mountain bike trails in Bolton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 90 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, scenic reservoir views, and the accessibility of routes for different skill levels.
Yes, several routes offer stunning viewpoints. For example, the area around Rivington Pike provides panoramic views. You can also find notable viewpoints like Two Lads' Cairn along some trails.
Yes, some routes pass by or are close to places where you can grab a refreshment. The The Pike Snack Shack is a popular stop for many riders in the Rivington area.
Parking is generally available at various access points for trails, particularly around popular areas like the Rivington reservoirs and local parks. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking locations.
Bolton is well-connected by public transport. Many trails are accessible from train stations like Horwich Parkway or Bromley Cross, and local bus services can also get you close to various starting points, especially for routes within the town's green spaces.
Many of the easy-graded trails are suitable for families, especially those that follow canal paths or are within parks. These routes tend to have smoother surfaces and less challenging terrain, making them enjoyable for all ages.
Beyond the natural beauty, you can encounter several interesting attractions. These include historical sites like the Scotsman's Stump Memorial, the Winter Hill Air Disaster Memorial Plaque, and natural monuments like Cheetham Close Trig Point and Stone Circle.


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