Highlight • MTB Park
Hurstwood Reservoir
Mountain biking
4.9
(95)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Hiking
5.0
(1)
Tips
May 21, 2021
Mountain biking
July 11, 2018
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hurstwood Reservoir
5.0
(5)
88
riders
72.0km
06:54
1,620m
1,620m
The Mary Towneley Loop, a challenging part of the Pennine Bridleway, offers a demanding mountain biking experience across 44.8 miles (72.0 km) with a significant 5304 feet (1616 metres) of elevation gain. You will navigate mixed terrain, from stone causeways and gravel paths to grassy tracks and rough packhorse trails, all while enjoying views across the Calder and Rossendale Valleys. Expect a difficult ride that typically takes around 6 hours and 54 minutes to complete, pushing your fitness and bike handling skills through varied landscapes that blend natural beauty with industrial heritage, including sights like Stoodley Pike.
Due to its demanding nature, proper preparation is key for tackling this route. Riders often prefer to complete the loop in an anti-clockwise direction, though it can be ridden both ways. Consider setting aside a long summer day if you plan to finish it in one go, or be prepared to split the journey over two or three days. The trail's constant ups and downs, combined with around 92 gates, mean you will need to stay focused and well-fueled throughout your ride.
This route is a purpose-built section of the Pennine Bridleway National Trail, designed for mountain bikers, horse riders, and walkers, and is clearly signposted. It's considered an epic challenge, rewarding those who complete it with a strong sense of achievement. The trail also offers a unique journey through history, utilizing ancient packhorse routes and showcasing the region's industrial past, like the Rooley Moor Road, which adds a distinctive cultural layer to the wild moorland scenery.
4.9
(24)
215
riders
34.2km
03:02
730m
730m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(9)
80
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 260 m
Weather
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Friday 15 May
10°C
3°C
92 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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