The best MTB trails around Brough With St. Giles

There are over 30 mountain bike trails in the Brough With St. Giles area, offering a variety of experiences. These include 13 easy routes and 18 moderate routes, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Yes, Brough With St. Giles offers 13 easy mountain bike routes perfect for beginners or families. A good option is the Ruins of Easby Abbey – Catterick Bridge loop from Colburn, an 18.8 km trail that takes you through river valleys and past historical ruins. Another accessible choice is the Richmond Town Centre – Catterick Bridge loop from Catterick, which is 22.5 km long and also rated as easy.

The mountain bike trails around Brough With St. Giles feature varied terrain, including woodlands, river valleys, and open countryside. You'll encounter gentle hills and a mix of surfaces, often following established paths and bridleways, making for a diverse riding experience.

Many of the mountain bike routes around Brough With St. Giles are circular. For example, the popular Whitcliffe Wood – Ruins of Easby Abbey loop from Colburn is a 24.1 km moderate trail. Another excellent circular option is the Cairn Below Applegarth Scar – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Richmond, a 15.2 km moderate path offering scenic views.

The trails often pass by significant historical sites. You can explore the Ruins of Easby Abbey, a beautiful historical site, or ride near Richmond Castle. The Top of Richmond Castle Tower – Richmond Town Centre loop from Richmond is a moderate 19.5 km route that incorporates views of the castle and the town centre.

The mountain bike trails in Brough With St. Giles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the mix of woodland paths and open sections, the scenic river valleys, and the opportunity to pass by historical sites like Easby Abbey.

While Brough With St. Giles offers a good selection of easy and moderate trails, there are currently no routes specifically classified as 'difficult' for advanced mountain biking. The 18 moderate trails provide a good challenge with varied terrain and elevation changes, but expert-level technical trails are not a primary feature of this area.

The region's gentle hills and established paths make it suitable for mountain biking through much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter conditions can vary, so checking local weather and trail conditions is always advisable.

Yes, many trails offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Routes that pass through open sections or along river valleys, such as the Cairn Below Applegarth Scar – Whitcliffe Wood loop from Richmond, provide excellent vistas. You can also enjoy views of historical landmarks like Richmond Castle from various points along the trails.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather, it's best to wear layers that can be adjusted. Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing, a helmet, gloves, and appropriate footwear are essential. Consider bringing a waterproof or windproof jacket, especially during cooler months or if rain is forecast.

While specific 'hidden gems' are subjective, exploring some of the less-trafficked easy or moderate routes further from popular starting points might offer a quieter experience. The area has 31 trails in total, so there's a good chance to find a peaceful ride, especially during off-peak times. Look for routes that venture deeper into the woodlands or follow less-known bridleways.