These days, you can seek out a mountain biking trail pretty much anywhere you go. Mountains, hills, woodlands, waterways – you name it – there are countless destinations just waiting to be found.
But for many of us, getting into the saddle and out into the wider world takes foresight, proper planning and a boss who’s willing to let you have the time off. When it all comes together, however, a mountain biking adventure can be just what the doctor ordered.
You just need to know where you’re going.
2017 is up and running, and we’re keen to help you make the most of it. So we’ve pulled together a list of some of the most beautiful, most challenging, most sought after trail destinations you’re ever likely to come across…
Lake District, England
Also known as the Lakes or Lakeland, this popular mountainous region in Northwest England is home to forests and fells, and boasts some of the biggest lakes the country has to offer.
An awesome setting for those looking to get outdoors in 2017.
The Lake District is made for mountain biking.
With over 50 trails to choose from, riders can expect a real workout as they take on steep hills, unforgiving hairpins, technical climbs, and cut through the incredible Cumbrian countryside.
Top trails:
Nan Bield Pass
Helvellyn and Sticks Pass
Skiddaw
Rotorua, New Zealand
New Zealand’s landscapes are simply remarkable – and the Rotorua region is no exception.
This ‘…haven of geysers and mud pools’ (Mike Ferrentino) – with its 17 lakes, the famed Mount Ngongotaha and the Whirinaki and Whakarewarewa Forrests – has emerged as one of the world’s biggest go-to hotspots for mountain bikers.
It may seem like a bit of a trek, depending where you are in the world, but that doesn’t mean to say it won’t be worth it. Far from it, in fact.
Rotorua continues to grow its MTB culture and is defined by its unique environments and testing trails – which include the Skyline MTB Gravity Park.
Top trails:
Great Lake Trail
Whirinaki Forest
Rainbow Mountain Loop
Tirol, Austria
Next up, Tyrol is the perfect answer for alpine junkies (and anyone looking to experience Austria for the first time. Home to the Paznaun Valley, this region is widely known for its skiing resorts in the Alps.
But when summer comes, it’s a whole different story…
This is what mountain biking is all about. Beautiful greenlands, brutal peaks. Tough, rugged terrains that touch the sky.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to follow in the tyre prints of some of the best MTB riders in the world right now – explore this sensational region, scale its steep slopes and become the master of mountainous terrain.
Top trails:
Serfaus-Kappl
Zell-Mayrhofen
Innsbruck Loop
READ MORE:
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- Inside Wales’ MTB Trail Centres
- The mad world of mountain bike festivals
Snowdonia, Wales
In this not so small corner of Wales you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with some seriously epic trails.
“All you need is a good OS map, a sense of adventure, a bag of food, big legs and a sunny disposition and off you go to have an epic ride.” – Snowdonia-Active
The Snowdonia National Park offers a wide variety of landscapes from which riders of all abilities can choose from and put themselves to the test. And its worth mentioning that mountain biking culture continues to thrive throughout Wales – with breathtaking trails scattered across the country and a bike park like no other.
Be sure to check out the Berwyn Mountains and Dyfi Forest.
Top trails:
Marin Trail
Rhyd Ddu Loop
Snowdon Ranger Path
Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria averages 325 days of sunshine a year – so there’s no need to worry about weather! If you’re looking ahead to winter 2017, there are few better places in Europe to hit the dirt and do what you love best.
But its the distinctive Canarian mountains and ancient volcanos that make this small paradise unmissable for any keen MTB enthusiast.
From single trails, to long, demanding rides, to a tough series of climbs up the sides of an extinct volcano crater – there’s something for everyone.
Top trails:
Guayadeque Trail
Tour of Gran Canaria
Chira Trail
Asiago Highlands, Italy
Situated in the North East of Italy, the Asiago Highlands is the last stop in our MTB seventh heaven tour. The plateau region lies in the foothills of the alps, providing diverse trails for riders.
This is an area steeped in history, so you’re pretty much guaranteed to come across relics and monuments as you cut through the alpine terrain and take in the stunning surroundings. Make the most of your adventure by researching the area before you arrive.
Why not pedal push through forests, meadows, military barrack ruins and take on technical climbs in the pursuit of Monte Verena’s 2,015 metre summit?
And while you’re at it, be sure to try the authentic taste of the famous Asiago cheese…
Top trails:
Ice Palace–Asiago Observatory
Caltrano–Giro delle Malghe
Roana–Posellaro Trugole
It doesn’t stop there
These seven locations give just a taster of what is out there.
If you’re itching to spend some more quality time in the saddle, there are literally hundreds of mountain biking destinations out there. Ready and waiting.
Chasing ridiculous panoramas, fresh challenges and good times? Isn’t it about time you put your next adventure into motion?