ride right

type of riding

There is tremendous variety in the technical level of the trails from easy routes on hard stone tracks, through to gnarly single track descents.  There are grass trails and routes over high moorland crossing between the valleys.  So you know what to expect (well sort of) we have worked with Harveys Maps to grade the trails in the Dales for difficulty. 

The Dales is justifiably famous for its long cross-country routes with a fantastic variety on each route.  The area has stunning limestone scenery and this also means that most routes drain quickly, but be warned wet limestone is not exactly grippy.  The bridleway network is also a journey through history with routes through old mining areas, and along old monastic and packhorse routes, as well roads put in by the romans and as drove roads.

type of bike

Any standard mountain bike will be fine to take you into the hills.  The variety of terrain means that some tracks would favour a full suspension set-up and others a hard tail, but even without suspension you will be fine even if your wrists ache a bit at the end of the day!  The key things are to make sure the bike is in good order, the gears are fettled, and there is plenty of life in your brake blocks.

keep it legal

There is an incredible network of trails in the Dales with over 800km of bridleways, byways and unsurfaced lanes to go at, so there is really no excuse for dodgey cycling.  That means leave the footpaths to the walkers.  All the routes are in the Yorkshire Dales National Park and Nidderdale AONB and many of the routes follow historic rights of way.  Those old mine workings might look really tempting to bounce over, but they are historic sites and protected so keep your tyres on the tracks!

weather

The Yorkshire Dales forms part of the Pennine chain up the spine of England, and the weather is part of its wildness.  You can find yourself riding in glorious sunshine and worrying about slapping on the suncream, or putting on those layers to keep hypothermia at bay.  Come prepared.  Because loads of the trails drain well you can enjoy biking here year round.  A cold winter’s day with the tops covered in snow can give an unforgettable experience.

Remember that this is a mountain environment and weather conditions can change very rapidly in any season. Most routes have high sections of greater weather exposure so always take an extra warm layer, and a waterproof, plus extra food and water in case of any delays on your ride. Avoid riding alone in winter or really bad conditions and don’t rely on a mobile phone to get you out of trouble, as coverage is at best sketchy.

If you want to know what the weather is doing you can always give one of the Park Centres a ring.

other users

The Dales is popular as a venue for walking and horse riding as well as mountain biking, so expect to share the trails.  If you are coming up behind walkers or horse riders a friendly hello is normally the best way to let them you want to pass.  Getting into arguments just gives mountain bikers a bad name and wastes breath you will probably need on the next climb.

grades and safety

Routes are graded using the ski run system.

Additionally routes on this site have been given an overall grade which takes into account distance, height gain and remoteness.

Technical & safety tips

take care

Always wear a helmet. Ride within your capabilities and skills and allow plenty of time for your ride. Before leaving ensure your bike is safe by checking tyres, brakes and gears. Tell someone where you are going and what time you intend to return. Take the appropriate map, compass, basic first aid kit, food and money.  A small survival bag is also a good idea and can be buried at the bottom of your pack.  If the worst does happen and you need to be rescued you need to be able to stay warm for a couple of hours until they get there.

watch the roads

Unlike forest centres you have to spend some of your time on tarmac when you ride in the Dales.  Most of our roads are pretty quiet, but there are some sections that can be busy, and you so you will always have to keep your wits about you.

tools

Always carry a basic tool kit as it can be a long walk home. A cycling specific multi-tool is best, but if not you will need 4mm, 5mm and 6mm Allen keys, small flat head and Philips screwdrivers. Also make sure you carry a pump, tyre levers, puncture repair kit and some spare inner tubes, it is easier to replace a tube than to fix a puncture.