The best traffic-free bike rides around Scar House Reservoir

There are 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Scar House Reservoir featured in this guide, catering to various skill levels. These routes offer a fantastic way to explore the stunning Nidderdale landscape without vehicle interference.

The routes around Scar House Reservoir offer a mix of terrain. While some sections feature well-surfaced roads, particularly along the southern side of the reservoir, others may include uneven tracks and stony sections on higher ground. Expect varied elevation changes, from gentle loops to routes with substantial climbs, providing a diverse cycling experience.

Yes, for families or those seeking an easier ride, the area offers accessible options. The 4.4-mile loop around Scar House Reservoir Dam is a popular, easy touring route. For a slightly longer, easy option, consider the Coverdale Road – Coverdale Valley loop from Coverham with Agglethorpe, which is 11.7 km long.

As you cycle, you'll encounter impressive dam structures, including the Scar House Dam itself, a significant feat of engineering. The routes also offer expansive views of steep valley sides and open moorland. You can also spot historical remnants of the temporary village built during the dam's construction and parts of the dismantled Nidd Valley Light Railway trackbed. The area is also a designated 'Milky Way' class Dark Sky Discovery Site, offering incredible stargazing opportunities if you're out after dark.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling routes around Scar House Reservoir, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, expansive views, the tranquility of the traffic-free roads, and the opportunity to experience the dramatic moorland and reservoir landscapes.

For those looking for a more challenging ride, several moderate routes are available. The Pateley Bridge – Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop from Lofthouse covers 42.1 km with significant elevation, while the Malham Cove Climb – Linton Falls loop from Kettlewell with Starbotton is the longest at 51.8 km, offering varied terrain and substantial climbs.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Coverdale Road – Coverdale Valley loop from St Botolph is a 29.9 km circular route, and the Gouthwaite Reservoir – Pateley Bridge loop from Lofthouse offers a 40.2 km circular experience.

The best time for road cycling around Scar House Reservoir is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically milder, and the stunning landscapes are at their most vibrant. While cycling is possible year-round, be prepared for potentially harsh and unpredictable weather conditions, especially on the exposed moorland, during winter months.

Yes, parking is available at Scar House Reservoir. The car park at Scar House Reservoir is notable for being a designated 'Milky Way' class Dark Sky Discovery Site, making it a convenient starting point for your rides.

While the immediate vicinity of Scar House Reservoir is quite remote, you'll find amenities like cafes and pubs in nearby villages such as Lofthouse and Pateley Bridge. These make for excellent stops to refuel before or after your ride, or as part of a longer route that passes through them.

The 'no-traffic' designation means you'll primarily be on quiet, low-volume roads or dedicated paths. While many sections are well-surfaced and ideal for road bikes, some higher-ground areas or less-maintained tracks might include uneven or stony sections. It's advisable to check individual route details for surface descriptions if you have very narrow tires, but generally, these routes are suitable for road cycling.