4.0
(31)
177
riders
21
rides
Gravel biking around Helsington offers a diverse landscape for riders. The region features a mix of rolling hills, river valleys, and historic routes, with some trails extending into the Lake District National Park. Terrain includes unpaved roads, forest tracks, and paths through agricultural land. Elevations vary, with some routes featuring significant climbs and descents.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.4
(11)
49
riders
27.0km
01:51
220m
220m
Embark on a moderate gravel biking adventure with the Sizergh Castle loop from Kendal, a 16.7 miles (27.0 km) route that offers a mix of paved surfaces and compacted gravel…
4.4
(11)
40
riders
23.3km
01:37
200m
200m
This moderate 14.5-mile (23.3 km) gravel biking loop from Kendal offers panoramic views of Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland fells.

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3.5
(2)
12
riders
63.1km
04:20
730m
730m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
4
riders
77.3km
05:37
1,030m
1,030m
This difficult 48.0-mile (77.3 km) gravel biking route in Yorkshire Dales National Park offers challenging climbs and panoramic views.
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All I can say is, it's spectacular and challenging by car, bike, or motorcycle! Just be careful, the road is narrow, and unfortunately, there are always some crazy people who think they're the only ones on the road! Don't stress, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the outdoors! But it's not called "STRUGGLE" for nothing!
0
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This is a beautiful viaduct, I wish I had seen it on a better blue sky day, it would make a great photo stop. Very impressive.
0
0
A visit to the reserve is highly recommended. However, there is now an entry fee: £5 for cyclists.
1
0
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0
0
From the Yorkshire side! I had no idea I was this close to the Yorkshire Dales
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There are over 25 gravel bike trails around Helsington, offering a diverse range of experiences for riders. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars.
Helsington offers a varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. While there are 2 easy routes and 9 moderate routes, the majority (15) are considered difficult. You'll find everything from gentle paths to challenging climbs and descents.
Yes, Helsington has options for beginners. While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are at least two easy gravel bike routes available. These typically feature less elevation and shorter distances, providing a good introduction to gravel biking in the area.
Advanced gravel bikers will find plenty of challenges, with 15 routes classified as difficult. These often feature significant elevation gains, longer distances, and more technical terrain. For example, the Old Coach Road via Glenridding and Grasmere from Kendal is a demanding 74.2-mile loop with nearly 1,900 meters of ascent.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Helsington are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Sizergh Castle loop from Kendal and the Heversham Head loop from Kendal.
Many routes offer stunning views and pass by notable natural attractions. You might encounter viewpoints like Brant Fell or School Knott. Other natural highlights in the wider area include Gummer's How and the unique Fairy Steps.
The best time for gravel biking around Helsington is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and trails are drier. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential ice, and wetter conditions on some tracks.
Yes, some gravel bike routes from Helsington extend into the stunning Lake District National Park. A notable example is the extensive Old Coach Road via Glenridding and Grasmere from Kendal, which offers a deep dive into the park's iconic landscapes.
While specific pub stops aren't detailed for every route, many trails pass through or near villages and towns where you can find local pubs and cafes. Planning your route with komoot allows you to easily identify potential refreshment stops along the way.
The terrain around Helsington is diverse, featuring a mix of unpaved roads, forest tracks, and paths through agricultural land. You'll encounter rolling hills, river valleys, and historic routes, with some sections offering significant climbs and descents.
Yes, for those seeking longer adventures, Helsington serves as a great starting point. Routes like Howgill Fells via Lambrigg Fell (over 48 miles) and The Lyth Valley via Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape from Kendal (over 39 miles) offer substantial distances and elevation.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, the mix of historic routes and scenic valleys, and the variety of trails catering to different skill levels.


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