Whether you’re hungry for a challenge in the mountains, long for a peaceful waterside saunter, or crave the invigorating fresh breeze of the coastal air, an abundance of cycling trails and routes meander through the very best of the British countryside.
We’ve compiled a list of six of our favourite cycling routes, and you can find the perfect choice for your experience, fitness level, and preferences below. These UK trails offer challenge and beauty in equal measure, perfect to enjoy on your electric mountain bike.
Please Note: A good level of fitness and some cycling experience is required for all of the following routes (even the easier ones). Riders should use their own judgement when choosing a suitable path, conducting extra research and taking into account variable factors like the conditions and season, plus personal health and ability.
6 Best Cycling Routes for Electric Mountain Bikers in the UK
Snowdon, Wales
Nestled within the stunning natural beauty of Eryri (Snowdonia), Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) stands tall and proud as the highest peak in Wales. Towering to an impressive 1085m, it’s no surprise that climbing Snowdon is a bucket list favourite among the mountain biking community.
Snowdon is prone to quickly changing weather, and can be affected by heavy rain and winds. You’ll need to keep a close eye on the conditions and prepare for all eventualities. This article provides more information on tackling Snowdon, along with details on some of its most popular routes.
Key Details
- Trail Length: 18.5km
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Facilities: While climbing Snowdon, you’ll be far from cafes, garages, and potentially even other cyclists. Pack accordingly and bring essentials like a pump, repair kit, food and water, and first aid supplies.
Assynt Achiltibuie Circuit, Scottish Highlands
This 112km circular route meanders through the breathtakingly rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. On this trail, expect to take in mighty mountains, historical landmarks and ruins, plus plenty of peaceful beaches and lochs. This trail spans single track and A class roads, and is the perfect way to take in the best Scotland has to offer. Check out the route map and more in this article by Savvy Cycling.
Key Details
- Trail Length: 112km
- Difficulty Level: Medium
- Facilities: As a road-based trail, there may be some opportunities for pitstops when passing through rural towns and villages, but be sure to plan in advance and pack adequate provisions.
Ulster Canal Cycle Trail, Northern Ireland
Starting at Maghery, the 77km long linear Ulster Canal Cycle Trail will guide you through a landscape of fierce rivers, soothing lakes and wonderful forestry. With plenty of tourist attractions enroute including historic houses, galleries, and parks, this trail is great for those who enjoy frequent stops to take in the culture. Find more details, plus a handy PDF map of the trail here.
Key Details
- Trail Length: 77km
- Difficulty Level: Medium
- Facilities: There are lots of opportunities to stop at traditional pubs and restaurants, indulging in hearty meals and local specialities along this route.
Trans Pennine Trail, Central UK
The Trans Pennine Trail spans an impressive 346km, stretching from coast to coast between Southport and Hornsea. This popular and well signposted route has few dramatic gradients, despite passing by the spectacular scenery and summits of both the Pennines and the Peak District National Park.
Key Details
- Trail Length: 346km
- Difficulty Level: Medium
- Facilities: This route passes through many major towns and cities, so there’ll be plenty of opportunities for rest and refreshment breaks.
The Camel Trail, Cornwall
This charming 29.5km trail is the ideal way to absorb the Cornish scenery. Following the river Camel, you’ll be led through beautiful untouched woodlands and marshlands. Built into an old railway line, the route is naturally very flat with a consistent hard surface, making it perfect for riders of all abilities. Find out more on the Camel Trail on its dedicated website.
Key Details
- Trail Length: 29.5km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Facilities: You’ll pass through the quaint towns of Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin (perfect opportunities to stop for a Cornish pasty!)
Elan Valley, Powys
This route runs from Rhayader to Craig Goch. Similarly to the Camel Trail, the majority of the trail sits on the hard surface of an old railway line (the old Birmingham Corporation Railway), though a short section is not surfaced.
During this cycle route, you’ll be able to take in the magnificent Rhayader Tunnel, an array of stunning reservoirs, and plenty of unspoilt Welsh countryside. Take a look at the Elan Valley Lakes website for more information on this exceptional cycling trail.
Key Details
- Trail Length: 29km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Facilities: Refreshments are available about halfway through the trail at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. Rhayader is home to a range of shops, pubs, and cafes, and even has a handy bike shop for emergencies!
Preparing for Your Next Electric Mountain Bike Adventure
Adequate planning and preparation will make your next trip safer and more enjoyable. Spend some time mapping out your route, planning for potential diversions and pitstops, and track the weather and terrain on your chosen trail. Reading tips and articles from other cyclists who’ve completed the route may be useful, too.
What Gear and Supplies do Electric Mountain Bikers Need?
Of course, every trail requires a unique approach and needs might differ from person to person, but you can use the following checklist as a handy starting point for your preparation.
Electric Mountain Bike Trail Essentials
- A quality helmet
- Water
- Energy-boosting snacks
- Gloves
- Reflective clothing
- Lights (to help you see and make you more visible)
- Maps and compass
- A charged torch
- Portable charger and necessary cables
- First aid kit (inc. a selection of plasters and dressings, disposable gloves, painkillers, aspirin, anti-septic wipes etc.)
- Repair kit for your electric mountain bike (inc. torque/hex wrench, allen keys, tyre pump, patch kit, chain tool, electrical tape, screwdrivers etc.
Consider what additional accessories might help you on your journey, too. For example, a phone mount, robust storage pod, mudguard, or spare battery might come in handy.
To find the best electric bike to facilitate your next UK cycling trail adventure, contact us today.
