The best cycling routes around Elter Water

There are over 190 touring cycling routes around Elter Water, offering a wide range of experiences for all skill levels. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

The terrain around Elter Water is quite varied. You'll find a mix of paved surfaces, smooth gravel trails, and some unpaved segments. Routes range from level paths through woodlands and along the lake shore to challenging climbs with significant elevation gain in the fells of the Langdale Valley.

Yes, Elter Water offers several easy and family-friendly options. The smooth gravel trail encircling Elter Water itself is suitable for all skill levels, passing through shaded woodlands. Another gentle, well-surfaced bridleway runs from Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge, offering stunning views and lake access, and is largely traffic-free, making it ideal for families.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Elter Water area provides routes with significant elevation gain and dramatic mountain views. A prime example is the Elterwater Cycling Routes – Hardknott Pass Summit loop from Lakes, which covers 34.4 miles (55.4 km) with over 1,270 meters of ascent. Another difficult option is the Elterwater Cycle Path – Elterwater Cycling Routes loop from Skelwith, a 20.2-mile (32.5 km) path with varied terrain.

Absolutely. The Elter Water area is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past the serene Elter Water lake, follow the course of the River Brathay, and enjoy views of the iconic Langdale Pikes. Impressive waterfalls like Skelwith Force and Colwith Force are also accessible, especially striking after heavy rain. Ancient woodlands provide shaded routes and habitats for wildlife.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Elter Water, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 250 reviews. Cyclists particularly praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lake shores and river paths to challenging fell climbs, and the variety of routes catering to different ability levels.

Yes, many routes in the Elter Water area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Elterwater Cycling Routes – Great Langdale loop from Lakes offers a picturesque circular ride through the valley. The trail around Elter Water itself is also a pleasant loop.

You'll find welcoming stops along the routes. Chesters by the River is a popular choice, known for its vegan and vegetarian options. The Elterwater Inn is located at the northern end of Elterwater village, offering another convenient stop. Herdwick's in Coniston also provides a discount for cyclists.

Elter Water is accessible by public transport from nearby towns like Ambleside and Grasmere. While specific bike carriage policies vary, many local bus services in the Lake District are equipped to carry bikes or have space for them, especially off-peak. It's advisable to check with the specific bus operator beforehand.

Common starting points include the village of Elterwater itself, Skelwith Bridge, and areas near Ambleside. These locations often provide convenient access to various routes and amenities. For example, the View of Rydal Water – Bridge House, Ambleside loop from Skelwith starts from Skelwith.

While Elter Water itself might not have direct rental shops, bike hire options are available from nearby locations. You can find rentals in places like Coniston (Coniston Bike Hire), Grizedale Forest (Grizedale Mountain Bikes), and Ghyllside bike hire, which also offers electric bikes, making it easy to explore the region.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder weather and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures, potentially icy conditions, and shorter daylight hours, especially on higher fells.