The best MTB trails around Milton Damerel

There are 7 mountain bike trails documented around Milton Damerel on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy lakeside loops to more challenging rides through river valleys and hills.

The terrain around Milton Damerel is diverse, featuring rolling green hills, traditional hedge banks, and tranquil river valleys. You'll find sections of the Tarka Trail with hard-packed dirt, some muddy sections through wooded areas, and gravel tracks around Upper Tamar Lake. More advanced riders can also find 'off-piste' trails with natural features like roots and rocks.

Yes, the area offers options for all skill levels. An excellent choice for beginners or families is the Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from Upper Tamar Dam. This 3.2-mile (5.2 km) trail features a gravel track around the lake, making it an easy ride typically completed in about 25 minutes. The Tarka Trail also has sections suitable for easier cycling.

For a longer, moderate challenge, consider the River Torridge – Tarka Trail loop from Langtree, which is 30.3 miles (48.7 km) long. Another option with significant elevation gain is the Hartland Abbey and Valley – Brownsham Tearoom loop from Redmonsford, a 25.7-mile (41.4 km) path with varied terrain and over 700 meters of ascent.

While riding, you can encounter several natural features. The Upper Tamar Lake offers scenic views and a pleasant loop. The Tarka Trail follows the beautiful River Torridge, where you might spot River Torridge Bridges. The region is also known for its unique Culm grasslands and tranquil river valleys.

Many trails in the Milton Damerel area, especially those on public rights of way like sections of the Tarka Trail and around Upper Tamar Lake, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock, and to check specific trail regulations for any restrictions.

The region is enjoyable for mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes, with wildflowers in bloom. Autumn provides beautiful foliage. However, some areas, particularly around Upper Tamar Lake and wooded sections of trails, can become boggy after heavy rain, so conditions might be more challenging in wetter periods.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. Examples include the Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from Upper Tamar Dam, which circles the lake, and the Forest Gravel Path – Barton Lane Leisure Barn loop from Milton Damerel, offering a moderate 24.6-mile (39.6 km) ride.

The mountain bike trails around Milton Damerel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural landscapes, the tranquility of the river valleys, and the variety of routes suitable for different skill levels.

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided, general access points for popular trails like the Tarka Trail and Upper Tamar Lake typically have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check local signage or specific route descriptions for the most convenient parking options.

Milton Damerel is a small, rural village, but the broader North Devon area offers local amenities. While specific cafes directly on trails are not listed, nearby villages and towns along routes like the Tarka Trail often have pubs or tearooms. The Woodford Bridge Country Club, a former coaching inn, is also located nearby.