Cycle-trails-map-pdf
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It is important to note that cycling is explicitly NOT permitted on the Play Trail at Moors Valley Country Park. While the park is very cycle-friendly and offers many miles of gravel and tarmac trails, the “Play Trail” is a dedicated pedestrian-only area designed for children and families to explore the wooden play structures.
Cycling at Moors Valley
If you are planning to bring your hybrid e-bike, the park has a great variety of waymarked routes that are perfect for that type of bike. Here are the options that are permitted:
- Waymarked Cycle Trails: There are several routes ranging from 1 to 7 miles in total length, using a combination of a central 2-mile circuit with additional loops (Crane, Somerley, and Watchmoor). These are wide, gravel, or tarmac paths suitable for hybrid bikes and trailers/tag-a-longs.
- “Through the Forest” Trail: A 4.4-mile (7 km) blue-graded singletrack route. This is more suited to your hybrid if you have some off-road experience, though it is narrower and more technical than the main forest roads.
- Watchmoor Bike Park: A dedicated area if you wish to practice specific mountain biking techniques on progressive trails (graded green to red).
Useful Information for Your Visit
- Park Map: I recommend picking up or downloading the “Explore” map from the Visitor Centre (£1) when you arrive. It clearly distinguishes between walking-only trails (like the Play Trail) and the designated cycle network.
- Etiquette: Cyclists are reminded to give way to pedestrians and horse riders at all times. It is standard practice to use a bell or call out when approaching others on shared paths.
- Parking: The park has ample pay-and-display parking. If you are a frequent visitor to parks like this, keep in mind they offer season passes which can be very cost-effective. Since you are bringing your own bike, you have full access to the extensive forest road network, which will give you a great ride without needing to venture onto the pedestrian-only play areas.