4.3
(106)
442
riders
44
rides
Mountain biking around Dean Prior offers access to the varied landscapes of the South Hams and the eastern edges of Dartmoor National Park. The region features rolling hills, river valleys, and a mix of open moorland and wooded sections. Terrain often includes gravel paths, singletrack, and some paved sections connecting trails, providing diverse riding experiences.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.6
(5)
18
riders
22.3km
01:50
510m
510m
Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure through Dartmoor National Park with the South Brent & Avon Dam loop. This 13.9 miles (22.3 km) route, with an elevation gain of…
4.4
(7)
25
riders
20.8km
01:58
570m
570m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(2)
9
riders
20.5km
01:41
480m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.4
(5)
5
riders
18.7km
01:27
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
14
riders
13.0km
01:11
330m
330m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Always good to stop and see why you are on your bike rather than among the rat race.
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Look out for the Clipper Tea van here on more popular, good weather days!
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This traffic-free road is a really scenic way to get up onto the moors from Shipley Bridge near South Brent. It's technically a bridleway, through the vehicle-wide paved road makes for an easy, gentle climb. Look out though, as the uneven road is starting to crumble in some place. It's a really beautiful pedal as you ride alongside the gushing waterfalls of the River Avon and between bracken, crossing the water a few times as you head up towards the Avon Dam and reservoir.
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The Avon Dam was built in 1957 to supply water to the coastal towns of South Devon. You can ride up the access road to the base of the dam but will have to leave your bike or push up to see the reservoir.
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Can get pretty muddy but beautiful through here on the doubletrack.
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Road bridge over River Avon. C17 or C18 packhorse bridge with hump back and widened on upstream side. Stone rubble. single round arch. Large stone slabs forming string with parapets above with large granite coping stones. In 1669 Lydia Bridge was in decay and the existing bridge appears to be either the restored earlier bridge or an entire rebuilding of late C17 or C18 https://britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101307206-lydia-bridge-south-brent#.Y_SY0SaZO3A
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Shipley Bridge is a major access point to Dartmoor's southern moors. There is a parking lot, toilets and information boards. A paved trail winds its way up through the Avon Dam Reservoir Valley to Avon Dam Reservoir. Initially this runs next to the river. Along the path you will meet stray pigs.
9
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Dam with a beautiful lake behind it. Beautiful panorama.
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There are over 40 mountain bike trails around Dean Prior listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.
Yes, Dean Prior offers a few easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and smoother terrain, allowing new riders to enjoy the scenic landscapes without excessive difficulty. There are 4 easy trails available.
Mountain bike trails around Dean Prior feature varied terrain, including rolling hills, river valleys, and a mix of open moorland and wooded sections. You can expect to encounter gravel paths, singletrack, and some paved sections that connect different parts of the trails.
For advanced riders seeking a challenge, Dean Prior does offer a couple of difficult mountain bike routes. These trails typically involve more significant elevation changes and technical sections, providing a demanding ride through the region's diverse landscapes. There are 2 difficult trails available.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Dean Prior are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the South Brent & Avon Dam loop from Buckfastleigh and the Avon Dam Reservoir – Descent into Scorrition loop from South Brent.
The trails around Dean Prior offer access to several natural attractions and viewpoints. You might encounter sights like Bellever Tor, offering panoramic views, or the historic Dartmeet and Clapper Bridge. The Lydia Bridge Waterfall is another beautiful spot to look out for.
While specific family-friendly trails are not explicitly highlighted, the region's easy routes are generally suitable for families. These trails often feature gentler gradients and less technical terrain, making them enjoyable for riders of varying skill levels, including children. Consider the 4 easy trails available for a family outing.
The best time for mountain biking in Dean Prior is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are drier, offering more comfortable riding conditions and better grip. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Winter mountain biking in Dean Prior can be challenging due to colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potentially wet and muddy trail conditions. Some sections, especially on the moorland, may become boggy. Riders should be prepared for adverse weather, carry appropriate gear, and check trail conditions beforehand.
While specific pub stops are not integrated into the route descriptions, many trails pass through or near villages in the South Hams and Dartmoor fringes. You can often find traditional pubs in places like Buckfastleigh or South Brent, which are common starting points or points of interest for routes such as the Avon Dam Reservoir – Shipley Bridge loop from Buckfastleigh.
Parking is generally available at common starting points for trails, particularly in villages like Buckfastleigh and South Brent, or at designated car parks near popular access points to Dartmoor National Park, such as Shipley Bridge. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees.
Mountain bike trails around Dean Prior are situated on the eastern edges of Dartmoor National Park, so there is significant overlap. Dean Prior's trails often feature a mix of river valleys and wooded sections, while Dartmoor itself is known for its more expansive open moorland and granite tors. Both offer diverse riding, but Dean Prior provides a gateway to the varied landscapes of both the South Hams and Dartmoor.
The mountain bike trails around Dean Prior are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the river valleys and moorland, and the well-maintained paths that offer diverse riding experiences.


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