4.6
(130)
1,451
riders
49
rides
Mountain biking around Dalton offers diverse terrain in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, characterized by scenic ridgelines and dense forests. The region features a mix of challenging singletrack and flowy trails, providing varied experiences for riders. Canopied hardwood forests and numerous waterways define the natural environment, making it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.6
(10)
37
riders
22.5km
01:48
360m
360m
Embark on the Grinton and Calver Hill loop, a moderate mountain biking route that offers a dynamic ride through the Yorkshire Dales National Park. You will navigate varied terrain, from…
4.6
(28)
276
riders
32.6km
03:07
730m
730m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Sign up for free
4.5
(8)
119
riders
32.4km
03:05
830m
830m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.8
(5)
96
riders
21.8km
02:02
550m
550m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.6
(14)
91
riders
38.3km
03:05
630m
630m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
One of the largest and most open village greens in the Yorkshire Dales, historically used for markets, fairs, and livestock trading — the social heart of Swaledale long before tourism arrived. The green’s broad, triangular shape reflects its medieval origins as a common grazing and gathering space. Plenty of parking around the village green, but having arrived at 7am in winter for a hike and finding them all full, I suspect other times of the year will be even more difficult to secure a space.
2
0
A wonderful village on the Coast to Coast Path. There are plenty of places to stay around the village green. The village youth play football on the lawn, including the very young ones. Very nice!
1
0
Part of the Swale Trail out from Gunnerside. Great valley ride and up from the old lead workings. Would have been better if the rain had not been torrential but par for the course on this day.
0
0
A stunning waterfall, not the biggest out there, but it is in a gorgeous location and very accessible from Keld village. A beautiful place to bring the kids and have a picnic.
1
0
Thought of as the capital of Swaledale, Reeth is a village with a history as rich as its scenery. Incredibly, in its mining heyday, it was producing a tenth of England's lead. Today, its industrial past is evident on the high moorlands, while Swaledale is a tranquil hikers' haven, quieter than the more accessible dales further south. There are plenty of places to eat and stay, including the Black Bull, which dates back to 1680.
3
0
A very pretty Dales village with its impressive village green.
2
0
There are nearly 50 mountain bike trails around Dalton, offering a diverse range of experiences. The komoot community has explored over 1,400 of these routes, providing an average rating of 4.7 stars.
Yes, Dalton offers trails suitable for beginners. Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park, for example, features trails like "Cub" designed for easier riding. While most routes in the komoot guide are moderate, there are 4 easy routes available, providing a good starting point for new riders.
For advanced riders seeking a challenge, the Pinhoti Trail offers technical singletrack with numerous roots and rocks, particularly sections like "The Snake" from Snake Creek Gap to Dug Gap. Fort Mountain State Park also has expert-level trails such as the East/West Loop, known for its wild and rocky terrain. The komoot guide includes 5 difficult routes for experienced mountain bikers.
Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park is an excellent choice for families, offering around 10 miles of flowy trails with berms and rollers, including beginner-friendly options. Fort Mountain State Park also features the multi-use Lake Loop, which provides an easier ride suitable for families.
Many trails in the Dalton area offer breathtaking views. Rocky Face Ridge Park provides 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, while Dug Gap Trailhead offers panoramic vistas. Fort Mountain State Park also boasts incredible overlooks and trails winding through hardwood forests and blueberry thickets. For specific viewpoints, consider routes that pass by highlights like Calver Hill Summit Cairn or View from Cuckoo Hill.
Yes, many mountain bike trails around Dalton are designed as loops. For example, the Grinton and Calver Hill loop is a popular 14-mile route. Rocky Face Ridge Park features a 10.2-mile loop system, and Fort Mountain State Park offers the multi-use Lake Loop. The Cohutta Wilderness also has loop options like the West Cowpen and Sumac Creek Loop or the Iron Mountain Loop.
Dalton's location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains means spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant riding conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter riding is possible but may require checking trail conditions for ice or mud, especially at higher elevations.
Absolutely. Dalton's trails are often close to natural and historical attractions. Rocky Face Ridge Park has historical significance as a Civil War site. You can also find natural monuments like Elsey Crag or mountain peaks such as Jenny Hill. For a different experience, Haig Mill Lake Park offers kayaking and walking, and Spring Creek Wetlands Preserve is great for wildlife watching.
Many key mountain biking locations in Dalton offer dedicated parking. Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park, Rocky Face Ridge Park, and Fort Mountain State Park all provide parking facilities for trail access. The Dug Gap Trailhead also serves as a starting point with parking within the Chattahoochee National Forest.
The region is characterized by numerous waterways. While specific mountain bike trails directly to waterfalls are less common, the broader area offers natural features like Emery Creek Falls Trail, which is a hike through lush forests with creek fords and double waterfalls. Mountain bike routes in Fort Mountain State Park also cross streams and circle a picturesque lake.
The mountain biking community highly rates the trails around Dalton, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 120 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging singletrack to flowy trails, and the scenic ridgelines and canopied hardwood forests that define the region's natural beauty.
While specific cafes directly on every trail are not common, Raisin Woods Mountain Bike Park is located close to downtown Dalton, offering easy access to local amenities. For routes like the Jingle Pot Road Climb – Dales Bike Centre & Café loop from Reeth, the name suggests a nearby cafe, providing a convenient stop for refreshments.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.