The best MTB trails around Scar House Reservoir

There are 15 mountain bike trails around Scar House Reservoir, offering a variety of experiences. These include 2 easy routes, 12 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, catering to different skill levels.

The terrain around Scar House Reservoir is diverse, featuring wide moorland views, rugged sections, and a mix of stony tracks and bridleways. This provides an all-weather experience with minimal tarmac. You can expect exhilarating climbs and amazing descents, with significant elevation changes on some routes.

Yes, there are easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. For instance, the Scar House Reservoir and Dam – Scar House Reservoir Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir is an easy 4.3-mile (7.0 km) path that offers an accessible ride around the dam with minimal elevation gain.

Yes, experienced riders will find challenging routes with significant elevation changes. Some trails involve up to 3,000 feet of elevation gain and require advanced riding skills. The byway over In Moor in Nidderdale, for example, provides a fun and challenging section for mountain biking.

You'll encounter stunning natural features and landmarks. The impressive Scar House Dam itself is a major highlight, rising 55 meters above the River Nidd. The area also offers wide moorland views beneath Little Whernside, and the surrounding moorland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. The car park at Scar House Reservoir is even a Dark Sky Discovery Site, offering excellent stargazing opportunities.

Many of the mountain bike routes around Scar House Reservoir are circular loops. A popular option is the Scar House Reservoir and Dam – Scar House Descent loop from Scar House Reservoir, an 11.5-mile (18.6 km) trail that takes you around the reservoir with a mix of climbs and descents.

The trails offer numerous opportunities for wide moorland views, particularly as you ascend to higher ground. The area beneath Little Whernside provides expansive vistas of the rugged terrain. Many routes, such as the View of Scrafton – Thwaite Arms loop from St Botolph, traverse varied moorland terrain known for its scenic outlooks.

Yes, there is a car park available at Scar House Reservoir, providing convenient access for visitors, including mountain bikers. It's also designated as a Dark Sky Discovery Site.

The mountain bike trails around Scar House Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, stunning moorland views, and the mix of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents that cater to various skill levels.

While some routes involve significant elevation changes, there are easier options suitable for families or those with less experience. The Scar House Reservoir and Dam – Scar House Reservoir Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir is an easy, shorter path that could be a good choice for a family outing.

The area around Scar House Reservoir is generally dog-friendly, with many bridleways and tracks suitable for walks and rides with dogs. However, as the surrounding moorland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and home to ground-nesting birds, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially during nesting seasons, and to follow any local signage regarding livestock or wildlife.

Yes, facilities such as toilets and picnic areas are available at Scar House Reservoir, making it convenient for visitors to spend time exploring the trails and enjoying the surroundings.

The area offers an all-weather experience due to its stony tracks and bridleways. However, spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but be prepared for potential crowds. Winter riding is possible, but conditions can be challenging with colder weather and potentially icy or muddy sections.