For mountain bikes and hybrids – our family friendly ‘Explorer’ routes follow forest and moorland tracks and country lanes, and show you amazing parts of the National Park that you can’t see by car. It's 'slow travel' for cyclists, with moorland and valley villages, shady forests, river crossings and coastal tracks all part of the package.
You might have to get off and push at times, but there’s always ice cream and cake and a country pub somewhere along the way. Explorer routes are circular, and the downloadable 'Explorer' route guides provide all the details you need to find your way. Follow the cycling instructions for a great day out!
Kirkdale and Kirkbymoorside
- 12.8miles (20.5kms) Easy
Head off from Hutton le Hole on moorland, woodland and country lanes, through the small, quiet villages of Gillamoor and Fadmoor. There are stops at a peaceful old mill and the beautiful Saxon church at Kirkdale, both tucked away in idyllic surroundings, before the long pull up and around to the bustling market town of Kirkbymoorside. There are plenty of places to stop for refreshments here, after which it's a straightforward ride back into Hutton le Hole.
Littlebeck and Hawsker
- 12.3miles (19.7kms) Moderate
Explore the back roads, country lanes and woodland tracks between the valley hamlet of Littlebeck and the old ‘Cinder Track’ railway line between Scarborough and Whitby. There are sweeping views from Sneaton Moor, before an exhilarating freewheel down into Hawsker. The route runs through Sneaton (ice cream alert at Beacon Farm!), before dropping down into the woods and along the valley, back to Littlebeck. It’s a challenge in parts – there’s no shame in pushing up the hills or walking through the woods!
Dalby Forest Loop
- 14.9miles (23.9kms) Moderate
On this easy-to-follow circular bike ride you’ll experience iconic moorland and splendid views across the legendary Hole of Horcum, and discover two traditional villages and the delight of Dalby Forest. You should be prepared to walk up the short, steep roads to Lockton and Levisham, but otherwise it’s a ride for beginners, families and explorers alike.
Coast and Forest Circular
- 32.4miles (52.1kms) Moderate
For a great taster of the Moor to Sea Cycle Network head out on a thrilling 32½ -mile circular ride from the seaside town of Scarborough. Starting out along the ‘Cinder Track’, enjoy stops at the old station tea rooms at Cloughton and the secret woods and beach at Hayburn Wyke, before reaching Ravenscar headland and its magnificent views. Turn south for the forest sections through Harwood Dale and Langdale to the viewpoint at Highwood Brow. Then return east to Scarborough, travelling along the leg of the Moor to Sea route with perhaps the greatest variety – fine views, a beautiful valley and enchanting woodland, with forest roads that are broad, smooth and easy to ride.
