Discover Dartmoor National Park on two wheels. Cycling offers a unique perspective of this South West England destination, allowing you to cover more ground than hiking while staying close to nature.
Popular Cycling Routes
Road Cycling
Haytor Loop
- Distance: 20-30 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Rolling hills with some challenging climbs
- Highlights: Scenic countryside, traditional villages, stunning viewpoints
This route takes cyclists through some of Dartmoor National Park’s most picturesque landscapes, featuring smooth country lanes and welcoming villages perfect for coffee stops.
Mountain Biking
Wistman’s Wood Trails
- Distance: 10-20 miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
- Terrain: Technical trails, forest paths, mountain descents
- Highlights: Adrenaline-pumping descents, technical challenges, remote wilderness
Experienced mountain bikers will find challenging trails with excellent terrain variety and spectacular scenery.
Leisure Cycling
Family-Friendly Paths
- Distance: 5-15 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Flat or gently rolling, traffic-free where possible
- Highlights: Safe routes for all abilities, picnic spots, visitor attractions
Perfect for families and casual riders, these routes offer relaxed cycling through Dartmoor National Park’s beautiful countryside.
Bike Hire Options
Most towns and visitor centers offer bike rental services. Options typically include:
- Road bikes for serious cyclists
- Mountain bikes for off-road adventures
- Electric bikes (e-bikes) for easier riding on hilly terrain
- Children’s bikes and tag-alongs for families
Recommended: Book in advance during peak season, especially weekends and holidays.
Cycling Safety
- Always wear a helmet
- Follow the Highway Code
- Use lights and reflective gear in poor visibility
- Carry basic repair tools and a spare tube
- Plan routes based on your ability and fitness level
- Stay hydrated and carry energy snacks
Seasonal Cycling
Spring: Mild weather but potential for wet conditions. Full mudguards recommended.
Summer: Ideal cycling weather with long daylight hours. Start early to avoid heat on exposed climbs.
Autumn: Spectacular fall colors but shorter days. Good visibility often but watch for slippery wet leaves.
Winter: Challenging conditions with limited daylight. Only for experienced cyclists with appropriate gear.
Cycle-Friendly Accommodation
Many hotels, inns, and B&Bs in Dartmoor National Park welcome cyclists with:
- Secure bike storage
- Drying facilities for wet gear
- Packed lunch services
- Information on local routes
- Laundry services
Combining Cycling with Other Activities
Consider pairing cycling with:
- Hiking: Park your bike and explore on foot
- Photography: Stop at scenic viewpoints
- Local Cuisine: Cycle between traditional pubs and restaurants
- Historical Sites: Visit castles and monuments en route
Cycling Dartmoor National Park offers an active, environmentally friendly way to explore this beautiful South West England destination. Whether you’re a road cycling enthusiast, mountain biker, or casual rider, there’s a route waiting for you.