Cycling in the Ribble Valley

A PREMIER mountain bike trail has opened in Gisburn Forest thanks to a £60,000 grant from Ribble Valley Borough Council and the Ribble Valley Strategic Partnership.

 

The facility includes an easy eight-kilometre 'blue' route for families and beginners, and a 22-kilometre 'red' course for more experienced and
expert cyclists.

 

The trails, which are set against the stunning backdrop of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, include tricky downhill and boardwalk sections and offer fine views over the nearby Stocks Reservoir.

 

The trails were made possible by funding from Sport England, the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Ribble Valley Borough Council, Ribble Valley Strategic Partnership, United Utilities and the Forestry Commission.

 

Robert Thompson, chairman of Ribble Valley Borough Council's community committee, said: "The trail offers a great sporting experience to all mountain bikers, from thrill-seekers, to families enjoying an active day out.

 

"We are delighted to support this superb new facility, which will help recruit people to this exciting sport and attract more visitors to Ribble Valley."

 

Gisburn Forest attracts around 30,000 visitors a year, 50 per cent of which are cyclists and mountain bikers. It is expected the trail will attract a significant numberof new visitors.

 

Please click here for pictures of the new trail

 

Please click here to download a route map of Gisburn Forest

 

Please click here to visit Cycle Adventure website

 

Other Articles on Gisburn Forest Mountain Bike Trial

 

British Cycling - 10th September, 2009 - click here
Forestry Commission - 4th September, 2009 - click here