Routes, Real-World Tips and Making the Most of the Season
Winter riding in the Yorkshire Dales is a different beast. The roads are quieter, the trails are muddier, and
the weather has a habit of changing its mind halfway through a ride. But get your approach right, and
winter can be one of the most rewarding times to be on a bike.
This isn’t about chasing personal bests or big summer miles. It’s about riding smart, choosing the right
routes, and embracing what winter riding in the Dales actually offers.
A Winter Riding Mindset
Winter rides work best when you reset your expectations. Shorter days, colder temperatures and variable
conditions mean flexibility is key. The goal isn’t speed, it’s enjoyment, comfort and getting home with a
smile.
That often means:
- Slightly shorter loops
- More sheltered routes
- A slower, steadier pace
- Planning around daylight rather than distance
Once you accept that, winter riding becomes far more enjoyable.
Clothing: Keep It Simple
We won’t go deep into kit here, we’ve already covered that in detail in our blog on How to Dress for Winter Riding.
The short version? Layer properly, stay dry, and prioritise warm hands and feet. Good winter kit makes
everything else in this blog possible.
Picking the Right Routes in Winter
Road Riding in the Dales
Winter road riding is best kept simple. Stick to quieter lanes and routes you know well. Shaded descents,
north-facing bends and higher ground can hold ice long after the sun’s been out. Loops that stay lower in
the valleys, link villages, or include regular climbing tend to work better. You stay warmer, conditions are
more predictable, and there’s always the option to shorten things if the weather turns.
The tour round Ingleborough from Settle is a good option with plenty of variations and a few warm pub
stops along the way to warm hands and feet.
Gravel Riding
Gravel really shines in winter. Many bridleways and limestone tracks drain better than tarmac, and traffic-
free riding is a big win when roads are wet or greasy.
Lower tyre pressures, accepting a bit of mud, and choosing routes that avoid long boggy sections can
turn a cold day into a brilliant ride. It’s also a great way to explore the Dales when the roads feel less
inviting.
You can’t go far wrong with the Settle Loop, or for a much bigger day out try starting at Tosside and
climbing Bowland Knotts and back via Roeburndale.
Mountain Biking
Winter MTB rides are all about flow and control rather than speed. Trails can be slick and rutted, so
smooth inputs and good line choice matter more than power.
Stick to trail centres or well-draining local routes after heavy rain, and don’t be afraid to dial things back a
notch. Winter riding rewards patience.
Gisburn Forest is a short drive from Settle and has plenty to go at for all skill levels.
Real-World Tips That Make a Difference
These are the things you only really learn by riding through a few Dales winters:
- Start slightly cool; you’ll warm up quickly once moving
- Warm hands before you leave; cold hands rarely recover mid-ride
- Eat earlier than you think you need to; cold burns energy fast
- Carry a spare layer in case you stop or the weather changes
- Run lights even during the day; visibility drops quickly behind the hills
- Clean your bike regularly; winter grit and road salt are brutal on components
And perhaps the most important tip: always have a bailout option. A café stop, a shorter loop, or an early
turn-around can save a ride.
Why Winter Riding Is Worth It
Winter riding in the Yorkshire Dales has a character all of its own. Quiet roads, empty trails, dramatic
skies and that satisfying feeling of earning your warm drink at the end.
With a bit of planning and the right approach, winter can become one of your favourite times to ride, not
something to endure, but something to enjoy. Well… at least not hate!
If you want route ideas, winter riding advice, or just a chat before heading out, pop into the shop or have a
browse online. We’re always happy to help.
