4.7
(385)
1,069
riders
120
rides
Mountain bike trails around Risley offer a diverse landscape for riders, characterized by a mix of canal towpaths, woodland sections, and open countryside. The area features gentle elevation changes, making it accessible for various skill levels. Riders can expect routes that traverse alongside waterways and through mature woodlands, providing varied scenery.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.8
(9)
43
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
14
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(4)
17
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
11
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
17.4km
01:01
120m
120m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A scenic, peaceful, and popular, privately-owned, man-made lake situated within the historic Locko Park estate. It is surrounded by lush green parkland, making it ideal for quiet walks, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
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Sometimes it can be muddy, especially after rainy weather. Just be careful!
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just a short detour off the route but worth the stop. quite stunning - and very noisy 😁
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Path up to the viaduct which can be cycled across - eventually also we should be able to cycle down the other side - but works are still in progress on the path and the Visitors Centre.
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Love this place. On both sides! Beeston side offers a café on the lock (+ Marina Club a little further down). Clifton side offers beautiful woodlands nearby.
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A fantastically beautiful water landscape
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There are over 120 mountain bike trails around Risley listed on komoot. These routes offer a diverse experience, ranging from easy, family-friendly rides to more moderate excursions, ensuring options for various skill levels.
Mountain bike trails around Risley are characterized by a mix of canal towpaths, woodland sections, and open countryside. You'll find routes traversing alongside waterways and through mature woodlands, often with gentle elevation changes. Some trails also lead through parkland, offering varied scenery.
Yes, Risley offers plenty of options for beginners. Over 70 easy mountain bike trails are available, providing accessible routes with gentle terrain. A good example is the Locko Park Gatehouses – Locko Park Lake loop from Ockbrook and Borrowash, which is an 8.4-mile easy trail through parkland.
The mountain bike trails around Risley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 380 reviews. Riders often praise the varied scenery, the mix of canal towpaths and woodland sections, and the accessibility for different skill levels. The well-maintained paths and opportunities to explore natural reserves are also frequently highlighted.
Many of the trails around Risley are suitable for families, particularly the easier routes that feature flat canal towpaths and well-surfaced parkland paths. These trails offer a safe and enjoyable environment for riders of all ages. Look for routes designated as 'easy' on komoot for the best family options.
Many trails around Risley are dog-friendly, especially those that follow canal towpaths or pass through open countryside and woodlands. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserve areas or where livestock may be present. Please check local signage for specific restrictions.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Risley are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. For instance, the popular The Stalybridge Inn – Attenborough Nature Reserve loop from Draycott is a 30.3-mile circular route exploring natural reserves and riverside paths.
While mountain biking around Risley, you can encounter various natural and historical points of interest. You might pass by the unique The Hemlock Stone, or explore areas like Attenborough Nature Reserve, known for its lakes and wildlife. Other highlights include Site of Wood Hall and Risley Lank and the tranquil Chaddesden Wood Local Nature Reserve.
The lengths of mountain bike trails around Risley vary significantly. You can find shorter, easy loops like the Locko Park Gatehouses – Locko Park Lake loop from Ockbrook and Borrowash at 8.4 miles, or longer, more moderate excursions such as The Stalybridge Inn – Attenborough Nature Reserve loop from Draycott, which spans over 30 miles.
Yes, many routes around Risley pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, routes that incorporate canal towpaths often have establishments conveniently located nearby. It's a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot for points of interest like cafes and pubs along your chosen trail.
The mountain bike trails around Risley can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. While some trails may become muddy after heavy rain, particularly in woodland sections, many canal towpaths and well-surfaced paths remain rideable even in wetter conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
While Risley is known for its generally gentle terrain, there are moderate routes that offer a good challenge without being overly technical. These often involve longer distances or more varied surfaces. For example, the Tree-Lined Forest Road – Bennerley Viaduct Steps loop from Kirk Hallam is a moderate 17.5-mile path that includes tree-lined sections and historical landmarks.


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