The best MTB trails around Blackbrook Reservoir

There are over 30 mountain bike trails available around Blackbrook Reservoir, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find routes ranging from easy to challenging, catering to both beginners and more experienced riders.

The trails around Blackbrook Reservoir offer a good mix of difficulties. Out of the 31 available routes, 18 are rated as easy, 12 as moderate, and 1 as difficult. This variety ensures there's something suitable for most mountain bikers, from casual rides to more demanding excursions.

Yes, the Blackbrook Reservoir area, being part of the National Forest, offers several family-friendly off-road routes. Many of the 18 easy-rated trails are suitable for families, providing gentle paths through woodlands and scenic countryside. For example, the Shepshed Pump Track loop from Shepshed is an easy 14.9-mile route that can be a good option for a family outing.

Yes, many of the trails around Blackbrook Reservoir are suitable for mountain biking with dogs, especially those that follow public rights of way through woodlands and open countryside. Always ensure your dog is under control, and be mindful of local signage regarding dog access, especially in nature conservation areas.

The terrain around Blackbrook Reservoir is diverse, featuring extensive woodlands, open countryside, and views over Charnwood Forest. You can expect a mix of paths, including ancient wooded trails, some rugged rocky outcrops, and heathland. The routes are suitable for off-road cycling, ranging from smoother paths around the reservoir to more varied trails through the surrounding hills and forests.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Blackbrook Reservoir are designed as loops. For instance, the Grace Dieu Trail – Rollercoaster Bridleway loop from Whitwick is an easy 19.7-mile circular route that offers varied scenery.

The area is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can expect to see the reservoir itself, surrounded by picturesque woodlands, and enjoy panoramic views over Charnwood Forest. Notable features include the striking blue brick One Barrow Viaduct, which crosses the south-eastern end of the reservoir. You might also pass by the historic Grace Dieu Priory or the unique plant communities of the reservoir's margins, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

While specific parking areas for mountain biking are not detailed, Blackbrook Reservoir is a popular outdoor destination, and general parking facilities are typically available for visitors accessing the walking and cycling trails. It's advisable to check local council or National Forest websites for designated parking spots near trailheads before your visit.

The mountain bike trails around Blackbrook Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the mix of woodlands and open countryside, and the opportunities to explore natural features and historical landmarks within the National Forest.

Yes, the villages surrounding Blackbrook Reservoir, such as Shepshed and Whitwick, offer options for refreshments. Additionally, the nearby Mount St. Bernard Abbey, a 19th-century monastery, has St. Joseph's Tea Room where visitors can enjoy refreshments, and it's also known for brewing England's first Trappist beer.

The longest mountain bike trail listed is the Cloud Trail – Swarkestone Lock loop from Shepshed, which spans 36.1 miles (58.1 km) and typically takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes to complete. This route follows a well-known path through the National Forest.

Absolutely. With 18 easy-rated trails, beginners have plenty of options. The Snibston Fishing Lake – Snibston Discovery Trail loop from Coalville is an easy 11.8-mile route that provides a gentle introduction to mountain biking in the region.

The Blackbrook Reservoir area offers enjoyable mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also great, though trails can be busier. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially after rain, as the trails wind through woodlands and natural terrain.