by andy.geall79
Posted on Dec 08, 2014 at 14:36 PM
A classic short mountain bike loop starting in the tourist town of Hebden Bridge. This ride takes in some great riding around Hardcastle Crags, Walshaw, Widdop, Blackshaw Head and Ragley. The route begins with a steady tarmac climb until the road rolls down to Hardcastle Crags. Just before the visitor car park there is a hidden bridleway to the right and the real challenge is clearing it without putting your foot down ‘dabbing’ over this very short but technical climb, both power and bike handling skills are needed to overcome the first real challenge of the day.The route continues up through the Crags before you take a left up to Shackelton Knoll. This climb is steep on a good day and the time of year can really effect traction as you make your way to the top. A grass descent then drops you through a small hamlet and onto a fast section to Alcomden Water before climbing up to the Calder/Aire Link at Clough Foot. The route then joins the Pennine Bridleway up a concrete road to Gorple Lower Reservoir before a short rest and more climbing. At the top reward your fellow riders with a high five or simply smile at your achievements as you complete 99% of this rides climbing. From this point the route heads to Colden and links nicely into the superb descent of Ragley. This descent brings you out on the outskirts of Hebden Bridge and we included a towpath return back to the start via the cycle friendly Stubbing Wharf pub that serves great food and real beer.
Red - Hard
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