Bleaky Hill and Gormire Hill loop — North York Moors National Park

Get ready for a moderate mountain biking adventure on the Bleaky Hill and Gormire Hill loop, covering 24.4 miles (39.3 km) with a significant 2880 feet (878 metres) of elevation gain. This route, which typically takes 3 hours and 47 minutes, offers spectacular views, especially from Whitestone Cliff, where you can see Gormire Lake and the distant Vale of York. You'll navigate varied terrain, including 19.1 kilometers of natural singletrack and challenging rutted sections across open moorland. Imagine riding through purple heather in August, adding vibrant color to the landscape. The trail demands good fitness and advanced riding skills, promising a rewarding challenge.

This loop is rated as moderate, requiring you to have good physical fitness and advanced riding skills due to its varied and sometimes rough surfaces. The trail features a mix of natural, unpaved, and gravel sections, alongside some paths, cycleways, and shorter stretches of paved roads. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, planning your visit during August will allow you to experience the open moorland at its most vibrant, when the purple heather is in full bloom.

One of the most notable features of this route is a brilliant descent across open moorland, described as rutted, rough, and wonderfully enjoyable, especially when the heather is blooming. Gormire Lake, a natural lowland lake nestled at the foot of Whitestone Cliff and surrounded by the Hambleton Hills, is another highlight you will encounter. This diverse mix of natural singletrack and breathtaking views makes the Bleaky Hill and Gormire Hill loop a memorable ride for experienced mountain bikers seeking a rewarding challenge in the North York Moors.