The best MTB trails around Cleator Moor
4.2
(15)
181
riders
12
rides
Mountain bike trails around Cleator Moor are set on the western edge of the Lake District National Park, offering access to diverse terrain. The region features fells, forest trails, and the tranquil Ennerdale Valley and Water, which is known for its road-free lake. Old railway lines also provide accessible cycling paths, connecting the area to the Cumbrian coast. This landscape provides a robust setting for mountain biking, away from the main tourist crowds.
Best mountain bike trails around Cleator Moor
…Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.8
(6)
65
riders
25.7km
02:18
260m
260m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
37.3km
02:55
520m
520m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
20
riders
64.1km
04:24
1,100m
1,100m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.3
(3)
26
riders
47.8km
03:30
530m
530m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
12.9km
01:08
130m
130m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A great place to have a dip in warm weather: cold clean water and a safe place of entry to the pools on the south of the river
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At this point you are effectively as far as the trail goes before heading back towards the start point. There is a man made water ford that is easy enough to ride over. It is an ideal location to stop and hydrate, eat and rest. There are slight banked seating points area where you can sit down and rest
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The track here suddenly has no trees on the track edge and is slightly more open land. There is a slight rise that your climbing, the surface is compact but medium size rock which takes a bit effort to ride over
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This is one of the prominent sights you see on this trail, Anglers Grag & Robin Hoods Chair are rugged rock formations that stick out into Ennerdale Water. It's a great sight and riding along you seem to keep looking over towards the rock
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Riding through the valley some of the mountains tend to be daunting, this one especially. There are areas where scree has fallen, even one section where the trail path was covered but still able to ride over it. Great views
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This is the view to the right side, looking over to the snow capped mountains. It was November 19th 2024, temperature down to zero at the waters edge. Heading further into the valley there were sections where a headwind was apparent, but other sections where it seemed like nothing
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Whinlatter Forest offers breathtaking views of the Lake District. The forest's purpose-built mountain bike trails, designed to take full advantage of the rugged terrain, were voted the second-best trail centre in the UK by readers of Singletrack Magazine in 2009. Managed by the Forestry Commission, Whinlatter Forest begins its trails at the main visitor centre car park. This area also features an information centre, a forest shop, Siskins Café, the Whinlatter WildPlay children’s trail, and various walking trails.
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Just ride it. Mostly road but on the west side, generally quiet. East Side is where the buses and campervans prowl...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Cleator Moor?
There are 12 mountain bike trails around Cleator Moor, offering a diverse range of experiences for riders. These trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars.
What are the difficulty levels of mountain bike trails in Cleator Moor?
The trails around Cleator Moor cater to various skill levels. You'll find 2 easy routes, 8 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for everyone from beginners to experienced riders.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in the area?
Yes, for a more relaxed ride suitable for families, consider the View of Pillar – Ennerdale Water Lakeside Path loop from Ennerdale Water. This easy 12.9 km trail offers scenic views and a gentle introduction to mountain biking in the region.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes near Cleator Moor?
Many of the trails around Cleator Moor are circular. For example, the popular Ennerdale Water Lakeside Path – View of Ennerdale Water loop from Grike is a moderate 25.7 km circular route that takes you around the tranquil Ennerdale Water.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while mountain biking around Cleator Moor?
Mountain biking around Cleator Moor offers access to diverse landscapes. You'll encounter fells, tranquil forest trails, and the picturesque Ennerdale Valley. The area is also known for its proximity to the road-free Ennerdale Water and views of the Cumbrian Coast.
Are there any notable viewpoints or natural attractions along the mountain bike trails?
Absolutely. Many trails offer stunning views. You can find viewpoints like Robin Hood's Chair, Ennerdale Water, and Lank Rigg Summit. The area also features natural monuments such as Angler's Crag and Blake Fell Summit.
What is the longest mountain bike trail available?
The longest mountain bike trail in the immediate vicinity is the View of Derwent Water – Loweswater loop from Lamplugh. This difficult route spans 64 km and features significant elevation gain, offering a challenging full-day adventure.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Cleator Moor?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Cleator Moor, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from fells to forest trails, and the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere compared to other parts of the Lake District. The scenic beauty of Ennerdale Water is also a frequently mentioned highlight.
Are there any trails that follow old railway lines?
Yes, an old railway line that once connected Whitehaven to Ennerdale passes through Cleator Moor. This tarmacked track is part of the West Cumbria cycle network and forms a section of the Sustrans C2C (Coast to Coast) cycle route, providing accessible paths suitable for cycling.
What is the best way to experience Ennerdale Water by mountain bike?
To fully experience Ennerdale Water, consider the View of Pillar – Ennerdale Water Lakeside Path loop from Weddicar. This moderate 47.8 km trail leads through the stunning Ennerdale Valley and along the shores of Ennerdale Water, which is unique for being the only road-free lake in the Lake District.
Are there any trails that offer views of Pillar?
Yes, several trails offer views of Pillar, a prominent fell in the Lake District. The View of Pillar – Ennerdale Water Lakeside Path loop from Lamplugh is a moderate 37.3 km route that provides expansive views of Pillar while following the scenic Ennerdale Water.
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