The best cycling routes around Scar House Reservoir

There are over 15 touring cycling routes around Scar House Reservoir, offering a variety of experiences from easy loops to more challenging rides with significant elevation changes. The komoot community has explored these routes over 500 times.

The terrain around Scar House Reservoir is varied. You'll find well-surfaced paths, especially on the southern side of Scar House and around Angram Reservoir. However, other sections, particularly on the northern side of Scar House, feature fields and uneven tracks, offering a more rugged experience. Longer routes often include stony tracks high above the valley and significant elevation changes.

Yes, there are accessible options. The Scar House Reservoir Dam – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir is an easy 4.4-mile (7.0 km) route that takes about 33 minutes to complete, offering accessible views around the reservoir and its impressive dam. This route is mostly on well-surfaced paths.

The area is rich in natural beauty and historical features. You can admire the impressive Scar House Dam, an engineering marvel completed in 1936. Further up the valley, Angram Reservoir offers additional scenic beauty. The surrounding moorland is part of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing stunning views. You might also spot historical remains of the temporary village that housed the reservoir workers, and the road from Lofthouse follows the trackbed of the dismantled Nidd Valley Light Railway.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Scar House Reservoir and Dam – St. Mary's Church, Kettlewell loop from Scar House Reservoir cover 21.4 miles (34.4 km) with significant elevation changes, often taking over 3 hours. Another difficult option is the Scar House Reservoir and Dam – Gouthwaite Reservoir loop from Lofthouse, which is 32.8 km long and features substantial climbs.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Scar House Reservoir are designed as loops. For instance, the popular Scar House Reservoir Dam – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir is a circular route directly around the reservoir. Other longer options, such as the Scar House Reservoir and Dam – Carle Fell Road loop from Scar House Reservoir, also offer circular paths exploring the wider landscape.

While the area is beautiful for outdoor activities, specific regulations regarding dogs on cycling routes, especially on permissive bridleways and through farmland, can vary. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, as much of the surrounding moorland is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Check local signage for specific restrictions.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Scar House Reservoir, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning views of the reservoirs and moorland, the tranquility of the area, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from easy dam loops to challenging climbs.

Scar House Reservoir itself is quite remote, known for its peace and solitude. However, the nearby village of Lofthouse, and further afield Pateley Bridge, offer options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. It's advisable to plan your refreshments and overnight stays in these villages, as facilities directly at the reservoir are limited.

The best time for touring cycling is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and the days are longer. The moorland can be exposed, so checking the weather forecast is always recommended. Winter cycling is possible but can be challenging due to colder temperatures, potential ice, and shorter daylight hours. The area is also a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, making it appealing for stargazing after a ride on clear nights.

Yes, there is parking available at Scar House Reservoir. The car park at Scar House Reservoir is also notable for being a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, offering excellent views of the night sky.

Public transport options directly to Scar House Reservoir are very limited due to its remote location within the Upper Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is generally more accessible by car. You may find bus services to nearby villages like Lofthouse or Pateley Bridge, but onward travel to the reservoir would likely require a taxi or a longer cycle.