The best MTB trails around Ashford In The Water

There are nearly 200 mountain bike trails around Ashford In The Water. This includes a diverse range of routes, with 32 easy, 143 moderate, and 19 difficult options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

The terrain around Ashford In The Water is varied, characteristic of the Peak District. You'll find a mix of former railway lines, like sections of the Monsal Trail, offering smoother, traffic-free riding, alongside more rugged paths through limestone dales and rolling landscapes. Some routes, such as the Monsal and Black Harry Trails Loop, combine these elements, providing both gentle stretches and challenging Peak District terrain.

Yes, there are 32 easy mountain bike trails around Ashford In The Water. The Monsal Trail, easily accessible from the village, is a popular, traffic-free route following a former railway line, offering stunning views and relatively easy cycling suitable for families and those seeking a less strenuous ride.

While exploring the trails, you can encounter several natural and historical landmarks. The iconic Monsal Dale Weir is a highlight, and the area is rich with limestone dales. You might also spot the famous Sheepwash Bridge in Ashford in the Water itself, and the impressive Headstone Viaduct on the Monsal Trail offers breathtaking views over Monsal Dale.

Yes, the region features several beautiful waterfalls. You might encounter the Monsal Dale Weir, Sowter Stone Waterfall, or even the Lathkill Waterfall. These natural features add scenic beauty to your ride.

The mountain bike trails around Ashford In The Water are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Over 4,600 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and the mix of challenging and accessible routes.

Yes, many routes in the area are circular. For example, the View of Calver – Black Harry Lane loop from Great Longstone CP is a popular circular trail that takes you through varied landscapes. Another option is the Litton Tunnel – Litton Tunnel loop from Little Longstone CP, offering a moderate ride.

Many trails in the Peak District are dog-friendly, especially those on public bridleways and designated multi-user paths like the Monsal Trail. However, it's always best to keep dogs under close control, particularly around livestock, and to check specific route details for any restrictions or recommendations regarding dogs.

Ashford In The Water and nearby villages like Great Longstone and Little Longstone offer various parking options, often near trailheads or village centers. For instance, routes like the View of Calver – Black Harry Lane loop often start from designated car parks like Great Longstone CP, providing convenient access to the trails.

Spring and autumn generally offer the best conditions for mountain biking in the Peak District, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though trails may be busier. Winter riding is possible but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially on natural trails, and shorter daylight hours.

Ashford In The Water itself is a charming village with local amenities, including cafes and pubs, perfect for a post-ride refreshment. Many of the routes pass through or near other villages in the Peak District, offering opportunities to stop for food and drink along your journey.

For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Bakewell, Baslow Edge & Curbar Edge loop offer significant elevation gain and explore open moorland and scenic edges, requiring good fitness. The area has 19 difficult trails for experienced riders looking for technical sections and demanding climbs.