Hartside Pass Ascent from Melmerby
Hartside Pass Ascent from Melmerby
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Road cycling
4.9
(37)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
North Pennines National Landscape
Tips
August 13, 2018
Road cycling
June 28, 2018
Road cycling
August 13, 2018
Road cycling

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hartside Pass Ascent from Melmerby

4.5
(2)
155
riders
111km
05:18
1,340m
1,340m
Embark on a difficult 68.8-mile (110.6 km) racebike loop through the North Pennines, a journey that will take you about 5 hours and 17 minutes. You'll climb 4383 feet (1336 metres) as you traverse wild fells and picturesque valleys, experiencing the dramatic landscapes of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and UNESCO Global Geopark. The route offers diverse terrain, from well-paved roads to the unique challenge of cobbles in Alston. Prepare for significant climbs, including the ascent of Chapel Fell, known as England's highest paved pass, and Killhope Cross, the highest A road, showcasing remote beauty and serene views of Teesdale and the Eden Valley.
This challenging road ride requires very good fitness due to its substantial elevation gain and numerous steep climbs. Before you set out, ensure your racebike is well-suited for both smooth tarmac and the uneven cobbled sections you will encounter in Alston. Given the remote nature of some fells, it is wise to carry adequate supplies and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Always check local conditions before starting your ride, especially if you plan to tackle this demanding loop.
This route stands out as a demanding yet rewarding experience for experienced road cyclists, recognized as the most popular road cycling route around Warcop. It is notable for its iconic climbs, including Chapel Fell and Killhope Cross, which are significant geographical features in England. The diverse landscape, transitioning from rugged fells to the calmer Eden Valley, provides a comprehensive tour of the region. The inclusion of cobbled sections in Alston adds a unique, historically authentic element, setting it apart from purely tarmac-based routes.

4.5
(2)
99
riders
139km
06:41
1,670m
1,670m
Embark on the Hartside Fell & Moor House Nature Reserve loop from Barnard Castle, a difficult road cycling adventure spanning 86.1 miles (138.5 km) with a significant 5483 feet (1671 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging route typically takes around 6 hours and 41 minutes to complete, demanding very good fitness. You will cycle through the River Tees valley's charming farmland before ascending into the rugged moorland of the North Pennines, where panoramic views from higher elevations like Hartside Pass await. While most surfaces are well-paved, be prepared for some unpaved segments that might require you to push your bike.
This popular loop is a hard road ride, so ensure you have the necessary fitness and experience before setting out. The trail features sustained climbs, including the long, continuous Hartside Pass with an average gradient of about 5%. Descending can be speedy, and some areas have sharp bends, so exercise caution. Autumn offers particularly beautiful colors across the landscape, making it an ideal time to experience the trail's varied scenery.
This route stands out as the most popular road cycling trail starting from Barnard Castle, celebrated for its demanding nature and the remote, diverse landscapes it traverses. It offers a unique opportunity to explore significant parts of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Moor House Nature Reserve, a key feature, showcases a wide array of upland habitats, including hay meadows, juniper woods, limestone grasslands, and blanket bog, providing a deeply immersive cycling experience through a beautiful and historically rich region.

3.0
(1)
11
riders
94.2km
04:36
1,080m
1,080m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 7.96 km
Uphill 400 m
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