The best MTB trails around Lincoln

There are over 35 mountain bike trails around Lincoln, offering a variety of routes for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these trails more than 70 times, providing valuable insights and ratings.

Mountain biking around Lincoln is primarily characterized by flat to gently undulating terrain. Routes often follow historic waterways like the Fossdyke Navigation and traverse open farmland, providing extensive mileage through the Lincolnshire countryside. While there isn't significant elevation, the landscape offers accessible riding for various skill levels.

Yes, Lincoln offers several easy mountain bike trails. A great option is the Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Lincoln, an easy 12.5-mile (20.2 km) path that follows the historic Fossdyke Navigation canal, offering flat and scenic riding. Another easy route is The Pyewipe Inn – St Peter's Church, Doddington loop from LNER Stadium, covering 16 miles (25.7 km).

Many trails pass by interesting landmarks and natural features. You might encounter the historic High Bridge (The Glory Hole) in Lincoln, or ride past the scenic Brayford Pool. The Pyewipe Inn is also a notable pub often featured on routes along the Fossdyke Navigation. For nature lovers, Hartsholme Park and Swanholme Lakes offer beautiful natural settings.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Lincoln are circular. For example, the popular From Doddington to Southscarle and Swinderby loop is a moderate 31.4-mile (50.6 km) circular trail. Another option is The Lady of Shalott Sculpture – Bardney Lock loop from Lincoln, a 32.1-mile (51.6 km) circular route through open countryside and along waterways.

The mountain bike trails in Lincoln are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars. Riders often praise the accessible nature of the routes, the scenic views along waterways and through farmland, and the ability to cover significant distances on relatively flat terrain. The variety of easy and moderate trails also makes it enjoyable for different skill levels.

Yes, several routes incorporate or pass near establishments where you can stop for refreshments. The Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Lincoln, for instance, directly features The Pyewipe Inn, a popular pub along the canal. Many other trails pass through villages or near the city center where dining options are available.

The duration of mountain bike rides in Lincoln varies depending on the route and your pace. Easy trails like the The Pyewipe Inn – Fossdyke Navigation loop from Lincoln, which is 13.6 miles (21.8 km), can take around 1 hour 20 minutes. Longer, moderate routes such as Pathway Through Farmland – Burton Waters Marina loop from Hykeham, at 26.9 miles (43.3 km), typically take about 2 hours 20 minutes.

While Lincoln's terrain is generally flat, many trails offer pleasant scenic views, particularly along the waterways and across open farmland. The West Common area provides open vistas, and routes along the Fossdyke Navigation offer picturesque canal-side scenery. The expansive countryside itself provides a sense of openness and natural beauty.

The best time for mountain biking in Lincoln is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and drier, making the trails more enjoyable. Winter rides are possible, but some unpaved sections may become muddy, and daylight hours are shorter.

While Lincoln is known for its flatter terrain, some moderate routes offer longer distances and varied surfaces that can provide a good workout. The From Doddington to Southscarle and Swinderby loop, at 31.4 miles (50.6 km) with over 400 feet of elevation gain, is a moderate trail that can challenge endurance. For more technical riding, you might need to explore specific trail centers outside the immediate Lincoln area, as the local landscape is less geared towards steep descents or highly technical singletrack.

Many of the trails around Lincoln are accessible from various points within or just outside the city, where public parking is available. For routes starting near specific attractions or villages, such as Doddington Hall or The Pyewipe Inn, dedicated parking facilities are often provided. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.