Description
Gunnerside Gill and Swaledale mountain bike trails in the Yorkshire Dales offer natural XC terrain across moorland, valley singletrack and rocky fell descents. The gravelly, stony ground rides well most of the year, though the exposed moorland setting brings windy conditions at altitude.
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The Trails
- Riding from Gunnerside takes you across Melbeck Moor and into Gunnerside Gill, with stony terrain, exposed moorland, swooping singletrack and tough technical sections. Long climbs are rewarded with descents through Gunnerside Gill and Apedale, and there is rocky technical ground throughout Swaledale. A good XC mix.
Swale Trail
- The Swale Trail is a 20km (12 mile) valley route through Swaledale, 70% on traffic-free tracks between Reeth and Keld. A multi-user trail open to walkers and horse riders as well as cyclists, and suited to families and those newer to off-road riding. Four sections connect villages, pubs, cafes and accommodation along the valley. Route information and a PDF download are available from the Cycle the Dales website.
Getting Here
- Gunnerside village is the primary base for the Melbeck Moor and Gunnerside Gill routes. Limited roadside parking is available in the village (DL11 6LE).
- The Swale Trail starts from Reeth, where the National Park Centre holds route leaflets and maps. Bike hire is available at the Dales Bike Centre in Fremington, near Reeth.
- OS map: Explorer OL30, Yorkshire Dales Northern and Central Areas.
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