4.1
(63)
638
riders
24
rides
Mountain bike trails around Roundhill Reservoir offer a diverse range of routes set within the expansive moorlands and rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales. The terrain features a mix of waterside paths along the reservoir and ascents into the surrounding uplands. This area provides varied landscapes for mountain biking, from easier tracks to more challenging routes with significant elevation gains. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, including reservoir views and open moorland.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
5.0
(2)
39
riders
33.5km
02:37
630m
630m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
2.0
(1)
4
riders
4.71km
00:28
140m
140m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
riders
23.5km
01:58
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
5
riders
23.0km
01:45
360m
360m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
42
riders
38.6km
03:10
820m
820m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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One side of the reservoir is road, the other is a fantastic bridleway
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A hidden gem and interesting story behind the construction of the Temple. Beautiful views and an interesting undulating walk through stunning countryside.
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This is a beautiful road to cycle down that follows the entire length of the reservoir. It's surrounded by rolling hills and farmland and provides great views of the Nidderdale Valley.
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Beautiful spot, with plenty of birds and other wildlife to see. A parking and picnic area is next to the road with a viewing platform.
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the drive to the temple was well worth it. You will find a cafe, and family area, before a short walk up to the temple. the set up of the rock formations is mind blowing, but very interesting. a big tick for me to visit again.
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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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Great to spectate after heavy rainfall in the area
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The trails around Roundhill Reservoir offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find expansive moorlands and rolling hills, providing open views and varied gradients. Many routes also feature picturesque waterside paths along both Roundhill and the nearby Leighton Reservoir. The wider Yorkshire Dales area, where the reservoir is situated, is known for both technical and gravity sections, ensuring a varied riding experience.
Yes, there are several easy mountain bike trails around Roundhill Reservoir. For example, the Swinton Bivouac loop — Yorkshire Dales is an easy 4.7 km route that takes about 30 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant ride through varied terrain.
There are over 25 mountain bike trails available around Roundhill Reservoir, catering to various skill levels. This includes 3 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.
While mountain biking around Roundhill Reservoir, you can enjoy stunning views of the reservoir itself and the surrounding expansive moorlands. A notable man-made landmark is the dam of Roundhill Reservoir, constructed between 1903 and 1911. Additionally, the intriguing 19th-century folly known as The Druid's Temple can be incorporated into various routes, offering a unique point of interest.
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are difficult trails available. One such route is the The Yorke Arms – View of Helks Wood Valley loop from Fountains Earth, which covers over 38 km with significant elevation gains, offering a demanding ride through the moorlands.
The mountain bike trails around Roundhill Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from open moorlands to waterside paths, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Roundhill Reservoir are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the View of Helks Wood Valley loop from Welcome to Tom Corner is a popular circular route that takes you through expansive moorland.
The elevation gain varies significantly depending on the trail's difficulty and length. For instance, an easy route like the Swinton Bivouac loop has an elevation gain of around 140 meters, while more challenging routes such as the The Yorke Arms – View of Helks Wood Valley loop from Fountains Earth can feature over 800 meters of ascent.
While specific cafes and pubs directly on the trails are not detailed, the wider Yorkshire Dales area is well-equipped with amenities. The Dales Bike Centre, known as the 'Centre of Trails,' is a hub for riders and offers services, suggesting that other local establishments would be available in nearby villages and towns for refreshments.
Yes, the area offers trails suitable for families. The presence of easy routes, such as the Swinton Bivouac loop, makes it possible for families to enjoy mountain biking together on less demanding terrain.
The best time to mountain bike around Roundhill Reservoir generally depends on weather conditions. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter riding is possible but may involve colder temperatures and potentially muddier conditions on some trails, especially on the exposed moorlands.


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