Kielder Deadwater MTB Trail — Kielder Forest

The Kielder Deadwater MTB Trail in Kielder Forest offers a challenging mountain biking experience, featuring varied terrain and purpose-built singletrack. This moderate route covers 7.1 miles (11.4 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1363 feet (416 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete. You will encounter swooping singletrack, rocky sections, and fire roads, all designed for proficient to expert riders. The trail culminates at the summit of Deadwater Fell, providing expansive 360-degree views across the landscape, a well-earned reward after the climb.

This trail system caters to experienced mountain bikers, with both red and black-graded options available. The red-graded Deadwater Fell trail requires good off-roading skills and moderate fitness, while the black-graded "Up and Over" trail is more physically demanding, featuring larger drops and technical elements. Consider a full suspension bike and a full-face helmet for the black sections. The newer "Deadwater Mile Down" trail combines red and upgraded black sections, offering berms, jumps, and rock gardens for an exciting, progressive ride.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its setting within Kielder Forest, England's largest forest, and the exceptional views from Deadwater Fell, which sits on the English-Scottish border. From the summit, you can see south Scotland, the Lake District, Northumberland, and even the North Sea on a clear day. The specially constructed singletrack descent back to Kielder Castle is packed with features, ensuring a thrilling ride. Local riders and volunteer groups have played a key role in developing and maintaining these trails, making them a highlight for mountain bikers.