The best MTB trails around Burnley

Burnley offers a diverse network of over 35 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to challenging technical sections, winding through the Pennine Hills, moorlands, and scenic valleys.

The terrain around Burnley is highly varied. You'll encounter wild, windswept moorlands, lush woodlands, and scenic valleys. Many routes integrate picturesque reservoirs like Hurstwood and Cant Clough. The area is defined by the dramatic Pennine Hills, offering both challenging climbs and flowing descents.

Yes, Burnley has several options for beginners. There are 7 easy-graded mountain bike tours available. A great starting point is the blue-graded Hurstwood Mountain Biking Trail around Hurstwood Reservoir, which features gravel sections, gentle curves, and berms. For a very easy ride, consider the Pendle BMX Pump Track – Canal Locks Near Burnley loop.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Burnley offers 3 difficult-graded routes. The Mary Towneley Loop is a demanding 32.6-mile trail with challenging terrain across open moorland. Additionally, Cragg Quarry and Lee Quarry, just outside Burnley, provide red and black-graded trails with technical climbs, bermed descents, and jumps.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Burnley are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Comptons Cross and Clough Bottom Reservoir loop and the longer Hurstwood Reservoir – Cant Clough Reservoir loop.

Yes, Healey Dell Nature Reserve, just outside Burnley, is known for its natural beauty and features breathtaking waterfalls along its exciting bike trails through woodlands and rocky terrains. It's a hidden gem for those looking for scenic water features.

Yes, for those seeking purpose-built challenges, Thompson Park offers dedicated features and obstacles designed specifically for mountain bikers. Additionally, the Pendle BMX Pump Track is accessible via a route starting from Rose Grove, providing a dedicated space for skill development.

Burnley's trails offer access to several interesting landmarks and viewpoints. You can ride past the unique musical sculpture, The Singing Ringing Tree, which offers panoramic views. Other notable viewpoints include Thieveley Pike Trig Point and Great Hameldon Trig Point, both providing extensive vistas over the surrounding Pennine landscape.

The mountain biking experience in Burnley is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from open moorlands to lush woodlands, and the scenic beauty of the reservoirs. The variety of routes catering to all skill levels is also a frequently highlighted positive aspect.

Yes, several trails are suitable for families. Towneley Park is an excellent destination, offering a network of exhilarating trails suitable for all skill levels, including flowing singletracks through woodlands and open meadows. The blue-graded Hurstwood Mountain Biking Trail is also a good option for families with beginner riders.

While mountain biking in Burnley is possible year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable conditions with drier trails and milder weather. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. During winter, some moorland trails may become very muddy or icy, requiring more advanced skills and appropriate gear.

Burnley has good public transport links, and many routes are accessible from the town center or nearby villages. The Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath offers tranquil cycling paths that can connect to various trailheads. For specific route access, it's recommended to check local bus routes or train services to points near your chosen starting location.