Pately Bridge loop

Pateley Bridge is an excellent starting and finishing point for the loop. You'll find various parking options within the town, which also offers essential amenities like cafes and shops.

This specific loop is rated as moderate, covering 41.6 km with 790 meters of elevation gain. While it requires good fitness and advanced riding skills, it's not considered 'severe'. Beginners might find some sections challenging, but it's generally manageable for those with some mountain biking experience.

The terrain is highly varied. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including stony tracks, quiet roads, remote stone tracks, and some tarmac sections. Be prepared for technical sections through old mine workings and woodlands, as well as cross-country riding with bedrock, loose rocks, and woodland roots. Muddy or boggy sections can occur, especially in wet weather.

The loop offers several notable features. You'll pass by the impressive Barden Moor and Fell Path, navigate the Harden Gill Ford Crossing, and tackle the Skyreholme Bank Gravel Climb. There are also fantastic views, including a View of Simon's Seat, and historical sites like the Prosperous Lead Mine and Smelt Mill.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Nidderdale. However, as the area is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with rich wildlife and livestock, it's crucial to keep your dog on a lead at all times to protect both your pet and the local environment.

Spring and summer offer vibrant meadows and generally drier conditions, making them ideal. However, the scenery is beautiful year-round. Be aware that wet weather can make sections muddy and boggy, so prepare accordingly if riding in autumn or winter. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Pately Bridge loop or other public trails within the Nidderdale National Landscape. However, please respect the local environment and follow the Countryside Code.

Yes, this mountain bike loop shares sections with several other paths. You'll find it intersects with parts of the Nidderdale Way, the Way of the Roses Cycle Route, and the 6 Dales Trail, among others like Skyreholme Bank and Plumpton Way.

Pateley Bridge itself offers excellent amenities, including cafes and pubs, making it a great place to start and finish your ride. While the route ventures into remote areas, you'll find options for refreshments in the town before and after your adventure.

The route offers spectacular views across Nidderdale and epic vistas over the broader Yorkshire Dales. High points provide far-reaching views across the Vale of York. You'll also enjoy wild, remote moorland, lush green fields, and serene reflections from water features like Gouthwaite Reservoir.

Given its 'moderate' difficulty rating, 41.6 km distance, and 790 meters of elevation gain, this specific loop might be challenging for younger children or families new to mountain biking. However, Nidderdale offers many other family-friendly cycling options. For this loop, ensure all family members have good fitness and riding skills.