This mountain bike route could definitely be called Loughrigg Lite in comparison to some possibilities in the area, but this wouldn’t really do justice to a superb little loop that in just 10km takes in a little of everything that’s good about Lakeland mtbing. It may be short but it’s definitely no pushover. It’s basically a two-up, two-down; with the first and toughest climb coming early onto Loughrigg Fell, and the second, which is much easier, on tarmac at the halfway point. Both the descents are full-on fun but the roller-coaster ride along Loughrigg Terrace is one of the best in the Lakes: sweet easy rolling in some places and a real rocky horror shows in others. A word of warning: the terrace gets extremely busy with walkers so choose your day carefully or better still avoid busy periods altogether. And always ride with something in reserve. This Route Card accompanies a destination article on Lake District Mountain Bike Routes - see http://www.ukhillwalking.com/articles/preview.php?id=5863&staff=7871a80f53ad
Grasmere Described by poet, William Wordsworth, as "the loveliest spot that man hath ever found," Grasmere is indeed one of the Lake District’s most scenic lakes. Wordsworth actually lived in Dove Cottage, in the village, which is open to the public and is definitely worth a visit if time allows. Neighbouring Rydal Water is equally as stunning.

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Height Profile metres / Distance miles

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Detailed description

1

NY3645605964 Turn R onto the road and follow it for nearly 2km to a waymarked, tarmac BW on the R (cattle grid). Now climb steeply up past Brow Head Farm and out on to Loughrigg Fell. Continue SA to the top and then stay on the main track eventually following a wall on your L.

2

NY3530103984 Keep SA where another BW forks L through a gate and continue to a x-roads with a broad track. Keep SA along another broad track and swing L to the road. Turn R and cruise up past Loughrigg Tarn and then fork R. Continue to the top, pass a small road on the L, and a footpath on the R, and then fork R onto a BW (Loughrigg Terrace and Rydal).

3

NY3401505503 Follow this down, passing above Grasmere and then dropping to the shores of Rydal Water – care is needed on this section as it is narrow and often very busy. Keep ahead, over the rocks, and then stay on the main track as it climbs slightly to a gate before dropping to the car park.

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