The best MTB trails around Milton Abbot

There are over 30 mountain bike trails around Milton Abbot, offering a wide variety of experiences. The komoot community has explored more than 500 mountain biking routes in the area.

The mountain bike trails around Milton Abbot cater to various skill levels. You'll find a few easy routes, but the majority (around 29) are moderate. There is also at least one difficult route for experienced riders, such as the Merrivale Range, Bellever Forest & Yelverton loop from Tavistock — Dartmoor National Park.

The region offers diverse terrain, from the rugged moorland of Dartmoor National Park to the scenic woodlands and riverside paths of the Tamar Valley. You can expect a mix of gravel and grass trails, alongside more technically challenging sections, including routes with significant elevation gains and open moorland stretches.

While many routes in the area are moderate, there are a few easier options available. For family-friendly rides, look for trails with less elevation and smoother surfaces, often found along repurposed railway lines or forest tracks. Always check the route details on komoot for specific difficulty and terrain information.

Many trails pass by notable landmarks. For instance, the Gem Bridge – Grenofen Tunnel loop from Tavistock features the historic Grenofen Tunnel. Other attractions in the wider area include the dramatic Lydford Gorge with its waterfall, and historical sites like Lydford Castle and Saxon Town. You might also encounter natural monuments like Widgery Cross at Brat Tor.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Milton Abbot are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Mineral Railway and Wheal Maria Loop and the Langstone Moor & Great Combe Tor loop from Peter Tavy.

The mountain biking routes in Milton Abbot are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 80 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor, and the scenic beauty of the Tamar Valley, as well as the mix of challenging and moderate paths.

While many outdoor areas in Devon are dog-friendly, specific rules apply, especially within Dartmoor National Park. Dogs should generally be kept under close control, and on a lead during lambing and ground-nesting bird seasons. Always check local signage and park regulations before heading out with your dog.

Many popular routes, particularly those starting from nearby Tavistock, offer designated parking areas. For example, routes like the Shaugh Tunnel – Plym Valley Trail Tunnel loop from Tavistock often have parking available at their starting points or nearby trailheads. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking recommendations.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on moorland trails, and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the area offers difficult routes with significant elevation gains and technical sections. The Merrivale Range, Bellever Forest & Yelverton loop from Tavistock — Dartmoor National Park is a prime example, covering nearly 62 km with over 1100 meters of ascent.

Trail durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. Shorter, moderate routes like the Mineral Railway and Wheal Maria Loop can be completed in about 1 hour 36 minutes. Longer, more challenging trails, such as the Merrivale Range, Bellever Forest & Yelverton loop, can take over 5 hours.