ROCK SPORTS:
Rock Climbing  |  Caving

AIR SPORTS:
Hang Gliding & Paragliding  |  Gliding & Microlighting  |  Ballooning & Parascending

WATER SPORTS:
Waterways  |  Canoeing & Kayaking  |  Sailing  |  Surfing  |  Fishing  |  Watersports Centres

ON FOOT:
Distance Walking  |  Festivals  |  Geocaching  |  Orienteering  |  Fell Running  |  Activity Centres  |  Safety Information

ON WHEELS:
Beginners Cycle Routes  |  Longer Cycling Adventures  |  Mountain Biking

HORSE RIDING:
Trails  |  Riding Centres

EASY ACCESS:
Routes & Experiences

Level of Fitness
Blue (intermediate) - suitable for those with an average level of fitness, and best suited to those with previous experience of riding a bike ‘off-road’

This is a 10 mile mostly ‘off road’ (16km) circuit which takes in some stunning limestone scenery including views of the nationally important Malham Tarn, Yorkshire’s Three Peaks and Attermire Scar.

Starting in Settle the loop climbs steeply out of this bustling Yorkshire town and into the National Park, traversing a wonderful limestone upland, before descending back towards Settle on mixed gravel and grass trails.

Settle is at its liveliest on a Tuesday when there is a vibrant open air market in the town square.  There is also a monthly farmers market showcasing the real local produce of the area.  Surrounding the market place is a variety of local businesses, including cafes and pubs.

Settle marks the start of the Settle - Carlisle Railway and is a fantastic way to explore the Southern and Western Dales without a car.  Settle is an ideal place to visit without the car, and gives you the chance to meet fellow holiday makers with the same idea in mind.

For the more adventurous visitor there is the opportunity to participate in the numerous activities available.  From caving, walking to orienteering there is something for everyone in Settle and the surrounding area.

Many other bridleways align the area and are suitable if you wish to extend your cycling route and visit Malham village and Tarn, then venture over to Littondale and Wharfedale.

June is the perfect time to see this route at its best, as the flower studded limestone pastures will be in full bloom.

Download a map with more information about the route.

Please note that the route is steep, in places and reasonably remote. Experienced off-road cyclists could expect to complete the circuit in around 2-3 hours, others may take a whole day.

You will need a mountain bike in good working order, a toolkit, first aid kit, spare clothes etc. Bikes can be hired from 'Off the rails' tel 01729 824 419

Find out more
See other MTB adventures in the Dales and Moors and Dalby Forest