Exploring Ennerdale #LetsRideThroughWinter.

To celebrate my 50th ride as a Leader I'm putting on one of my favourites. Water levels permitting (!) we will ride the Whole Valley route (11.5 miles) from Bowness Knott Car Park up to Black Sale YHA & back over the ford. If the river is too high to cross at this point, it will be a shorter loop (7.5 miles) to Middle Bridge and back.

Sadly some of the larch trees in Ennerdale are infected with Phytophthora larch disease and will have to be felled this year. Forestry England has drawn up plans to deal with this and have published them online for information. For more see: https://consult.forestryengland.uk/forest-districts/ennerdale-phytophthora-ramorum/. This means that the valley won't be accessible for rides for a while, fairly soon. So this is a great opportunity to enjoy this stunning place whilst we can.

Explore Ennerdale valley by bike allows you to see striking views over the lake to the mythical Giant’s fishing seat; whilst passing along the twisting crystal clear waters of the River Liza as it winds along the valley bottom with views of the majestic backdrop of Pillar and Great Gable further up the valley and through the woods.

The route is entirely on traffic-free forest tracks & bridleways which can have potholes, big puddles & loose gravel. Therefore, mountain, hybrid or gravel bikes with good tyre tread are essential.

Helmets are essential, a spare inner tube useful. As is comfortable clothing – a waterproof if wet. Bring something to drink & a snack, as there are no facilities once up the valley. Mobile signal can be patchy too. But we can call in the Gather at Ennerdale Bridge after for coffee, cake and chat.

We never leave anyone behind