The best cycling routes in North York Moors National Park

There are over 420 touring cycling routes in North York Moors National Park, catering to various skill levels. This includes 53 easy routes, 189 moderate routes, and 179 difficult routes for more experienced cyclists.

The North York Moors offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter sweeping heather moorland, dramatic coastlines, ancient woodlands, and deep dales. Routes utilize quiet roads, forest tracks, bridleways, and disused railway lines like the Cinder Track. While many routes are relatively flat, there are also challenging climbs such as Sutton Bank and Rosedale Chimney for those seeking more elevation.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 270 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied scenery, from coastal views to tranquil forest paths, and the well-maintained network of trails suitable for different abilities. Over 9,500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the park's diverse landscapes.

Yes, there are 53 easy touring cycling routes, many of which are ideal for beginners and families. For example, the Adderstone GREEN Trail (full trail) — Dalby Forest and the Adderstone GREEN Trail (shorter loop) — Dalby Forest offer gentle rides through the managed woodlands of Dalby Forest. Another popular easy option is the Moor to Sea Cycle Network: 2b Ravenscar to Whitby (Cinder Track), which follows a historic disused railway line with coastal views.

Yes, the North York Moors National Park offers 179 difficult routes for experienced cyclists. The region is known for challenging climbs like Sutton Bank, Whitehorse Bank, and Rosedale Chimney, which provide significant elevation gain and stunning panoramic views across the open moorland. These routes often combine quiet roads with more demanding off-road sections.

Absolutely. The park is home to significant long-distance routes. The **Moor to Sea Cycle Network** spans approximately 150 miles, connecting coastal towns with inland areas and offering a multi-day cycling experience. Another option is the **North York Moors Cycleway**, a 171-mile road cycling route designed as a figure-of-eight loop, primarily using quieter roads and passing many of the landscape's highlights.

The North York Moors are rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past iconic formations like Roseberry Topping Summit, a distinctive hill offering spectacular views. Other notable spots include Carlton Bank Summit Trig Point and The Wainstones. The park also features picturesque waterfalls such as Mallyan Spout Waterfall and Thomason Foss.

Yes, you can find several beautiful waterfalls. Mallyan Spout Waterfall is the tallest in the North York Moors, a 70-foot cascade nestled in a steep sandstone ravine. Another picturesque option is Thomason Foss, a 15-foot waterfall popular for its scenic beauty. You might also encounter Hayburn Wyke Waterfall and Beach along coastal sections.

Many touring cycling routes in the North York Moors are dog-friendly, especially those on bridleways and forest tracks. However, it's important to keep dogs under close control, particularly on moorland areas where ground-nesting birds and livestock are present. Always check local signage and be mindful of other users and wildlife. Dalby Forest, for instance, generally welcomes dogs on its trails.

The best time for touring cycling is generally from spring through autumn. In late summer (August and September), the heather moorland is in full bloom, creating stunning purple landscapes. Spring offers milder weather and fewer crowds, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potentially icy conditions, and shorter daylight hours, especially on exposed moorland routes.

Yes, Dalby Forest is a major hub for cycling, offering dedicated cycling centers with bike hire, servicing, and cafes. Sutton Bank is another key cycling center, providing access to various trails and minor roads. These centers are excellent starting points for your cycling adventures and offer amenities for cyclists.

Public transport options are available, though they may be limited in some of the more remote areas. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a heritage steam line, runs through the park and can be a scenic way to access certain areas, though carrying bikes may require prior arrangement. Local bus services connect some villages and towns, but it's advisable to check if they accommodate bicycles before planning your trip. Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and villages.

The park is rich in history and culture. You can cycle through picturesque villages like Thornton-le-Dale, often considered one of Yorkshire's prettiest, offering charming stops. The region also features ancient ruins, such as the Gothic ruins of Rievaulx Abbey and Pickering Castle, providing fascinating historical points of interest along or near many routes.