The best MTB trails around Scar House Reservoir
4.7
(60)
638
riders
15
rides
Mountain biking around Scar House Reservoir offers diverse routes within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The terrain features wide moorland views, rugged sections, and a mix of stony tracks and bridleways, providing an all-weather experience. The area is characterized by significant elevation changes, including exhilarating climbs and descents, with the impressive Scar House Dam as a notable landmark. These physical features create varied riding conditions suitable for different skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails around Scar House Reservoir
…Last updated: May 11, 2026
5.0
(2)
7
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
18.7km
01:51
560m
560m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
3
riders
16.4km
01:38
440m
440m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
riders
19.8km
01:35
340m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
North Tarn Hills 444.9m P12.2 (1460ft) (Hill ID: 509657) [JNSA s4109] County of Yorkshire Definitive List summit. Yorkshire Dales National Park Definitive List summit Kent List.
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In Moor lane is a byway that runs over In Moor in Nidderdale. This section is fun on a mountain bike, either as a descent towards Scar House reservoir or as a climb up onto the moor. It drops off the moor to the reservoir quite steeply, so watch out! This track is used by the Nidderdale Way long distance walking trail, so watch out for walkers.
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The village of Lodge on the edge of the valley had originally been established around a grange farm as part of the Cistercian Byland Abbey in medieval times. Occupied until the 1920's there are plaques against the ruined buildings and a small map on a display board showing you the locations of them. remains of the five buildings can still be seen and the ruined houses, with their stone flagged floors and old kitchen ranges they would have a bleak and simple lifestyle.
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There is a small shelter on the West side of the Dam along the access wall which has seats inside ideal for a picnic out of the wind and rain! (Although the birds also agree)
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The reservoir was built to supply water to the Bradford area of West Yorkshire. It was built by Bradford Corporation between 1904 and 1919, under an Act of Parliament in 1890 which also authorised the corporation to construct three other reservoirs in upper Nidderdale.
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Scar House Reservoir is located in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire, England. The dam that forms Scar House Reservoir is an impressive structure. Here are some key points about Scar House Reservoir's dam: Construction: The construction of Scar House Reservoir began in 1921 and was completed in 1936. The purpose of the reservoir was to supply water to the Bradford area. Height and Type: The dam is an earth embankment dam, which means it is constructed using compacted earth. The height of Scar House Dam is approximately 72 meters (236 feet), making it one of the tallest dams in England. Reservoir Capacity: Scar House Reservoir has a capacity of around 40 billion liters (8.8 billion gallons) of water. The reservoir is part of a network of reservoirs in the area that collectively serve the purpose of water supply. Water Source: The reservoir collects water from the surrounding hills and moorlands, storing it for supply to the cities and towns downstream, particularly Bradford. Recreation: Apart from its primary function of water supply, Scar House Reservoir and its surrounding area also offer recreational opportunities. The reservoir is situated in a scenic landscape, making it a popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts. Management: The reservoir and dam are managed by Yorkshire Water, a company responsible for providing water and wastewater services in the Yorkshire region.
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Good footpaths for the majority of the walk all the way to Scar House reservoir
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available 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.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails around Scar House Reservoir?
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.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
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.
Are there challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
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.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while mountain biking around Scar House Reservoir?
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.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the area?
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.
Where can I find the best viewpoints along the trails?
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.
Is there parking available at Scar House Reservoir for mountain bikers?
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.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Scar House Reservoir?
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.
Are the mountain bike trails around Scar House Reservoir suitable for families?
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.
Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails?
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.
Are there any facilities like toilets or picnic areas available?
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.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking around Scar House Reservoir?
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.
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