The best MTB trails around Harlow

Harlow offers a wide selection of mountain biking opportunities, with over 50 trails available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options.

You can expect a diverse mix of terrain, including gravel paths, multi-use sections, worn forest trails, and narrow, fast singletrack. Some areas, like Harlow Wood, even feature challenging sand-covered paths and undulating terrain with small bumps. The region is characterized by its 'green wedges' and connections to natural landscapes like the River Stort.

Yes, Harlow has 26 easy mountain bike trails, perfect for beginners or family outings. An excellent option is the Jacoby’s Bar – Amwell Nature Reserve loop from Rye House, which is 13 miles (20.9 km) long and features minimal elevation gain. Another easy route is the High Beech Tea Hut – View of Epping Forest loop from Epping, covering 9.9 miles (15.9 km) through Epping Forest.

Many of Harlow's mountain bike trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Lea Valley loop from Harlow Town is a moderate 20.1-mile (32.4 km) circular route, offering varied riverside and woodland sections. Another option is the Strawberry Hill Pond – Epping Forest loop from Epping Forest, which is 18.6 miles (29.9 km) long.

Harlow's trails often pass by interesting natural and man-made features. You can explore the Parndon Mill and Lock, or the Burnt Mill Lock. The River Stort Navigation is a prominent natural feature, and you might even discover Historic Buildings of Old Harlow. For a unique experience, some trails lead near the Wooden Ramps and Jumps in the Forest.

The mountain bike trails around Harlow are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 300 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the diverse terrain, from riverside paths to forest singletrack, and the well-integrated green spaces.

While most trails are easy to moderate, there is one difficult mountain bike route for experienced riders. The Sherrardspark Wood – Dawson Way loop from Rye House is a challenging 55.6-mile (89.6 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding ride through varied landscapes.

Yes, several trails connect to or pass through Epping Forest. The Strawberry Hill Pond – Epping Forest loop from Epping Forest is a popular 18.6-mile (29.9 km) route that takes you directly into the forest. Epping Forest offers a mix of worn forest trails and singletrack sections.

Absolutely. The Lea Valley loop from Harlow Town is a prominent 20.1-mile (32.4 km) route that follows the Lea Valley, offering varied riverside and woodland sections. Another option is the View of Amwell Nature Reserve – Lee Navigation Towpath loop from Harlow Town, a 22.1-mile (35.5 km) route that also explores the Lea Valley area.

Harlow's trails can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Some forest trails, particularly in areas like Harlow Wood, might have sand-covered sections that can be more challenging in wet weather, so checking local conditions is advisable.

Yes, for those who enjoy a blend of surfaces, the High Cross loop from Harlow is a moderate 29.7-mile (47.8 km) path that features a mix of rural roads and off-road sections through the surrounding countryside, providing a varied riding experience.

Yes, the Parndon Mill – Parndon Mill and Lock loop from Passmores Academy is an easy 12.9-mile (20.8 km) route that takes you past the historic Parndon Mill and Lock, offering a scenic ride with cultural interest.