There are a fantastic array of riding spots in the UK. From North to South, you're usually never far from a hill to ride down. However, if you happen to live in the Midlands there is a lack of quick access to any decent purpose built trail or natural terrain on a decent gradient. Usually you need at least an hour in the car before you can get your tyres dirty. Yet, tucked away in the not so deep valleys of Northamptonshire is the 'Scar Tree Trail' in Wakerley woods, just off the A47.
January Blues
Redeveloped last year from an old red route that suffered during the wetter months, the new surfaced blue (intermediate difficulty) trail runs well throughout the year. Although not massively lengthy (just over 3.5km), finding any kind of MTB specific singletrack like this in the East Midlands is a rarity. 'Flow' is the central theme at Wakerley, with a plentiful supply of berms and rollers to keep you entertained along the tight wooded singletrack.
Purpose built and free of traffic
Plenty of berms to keep you entertained
Although there there is only a gentle gradient, the uphill switchbacks get the blood flowing, and you are rewarded with tight turns and berms fun enough to leave even more experienced riders with a grin on their face! If you keep an eye out, you can also find the remnants of the old red trail to be found if you look hard enough to provide that extra spice to keep things interesting.
'Off-piste' tech is there if you look hard enough
If you are based in the East Midlands and don't want to spend long in the car, Wakerley is a great option for a blast. Although there aren't many facilities there (other than toilets), you can also find Fineshade woods just across the road, another outdoor centre complete with bike shop and visitors centre. It has a few short blue sections of trail around a fireroad loop, but is much easier so a good option if you find Wakerley too much.
For more info head over toForestry Commission Website or check out trailforks!
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1/26/2015 9:37am
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