lake district cycling tour

All bike hire must be booked in advance via this website.

Guided Bike Tours

Starting from lowick, just to the south of grizedale forest.

Lake District Bikes offer bespoke guided bike tours for you, your family and your friends. Starting from our bike hire base in Lowick, just four miles to the south of Grizedale Forest, we will take you straight to the heart of some of the best on or off-road cycling in the Lake District.

Forget about the hassle of route planning, the frustration of stopping to read maps, running out of battery on your phone or getting lost! Our guides know the area inside out and will take you on routes that only locals know about.

On our guided tours you will be given an insight into this beautiful historic part of the Lake District riding through countryside that is well away from the main tourist hotspots. Did you know the Industrial Revolution started here? Do you know how the current landscape, so admired by everyone, has been created and how it is under threat? Our guides will share lots of their local knowledge with you.

From gentle meandering rides through pretty villages, cycling alongside the lakeshore, to exhilarating mountain bike adventures in fantastic remote locations – We will create the perfect ride for you!

We have easy, moderate and challenging off-road routes or road cycling routes. See Mountain Bike Guiding and Road Bike Guiding for more details and take a look at some of the places we go to.

Guided bike tours are available for a full day (10:30 – 16:00 including a lunch stop) and half days (10:30 – 13:00) or (13:30 – 16:00)

• An experienced guide with in depth knowledge of the area – we live here!
• Road Bikes, Mountain Bikes, Hybrid Bikes, Children’s Bikes, Road E-Bikes, and Mountain E-Bikes available to hire
• Bring your own bike if you wish
• Cycling helmets (mandatory) and fluorescent gilets provided free of charge
• Pre-ride briefing and safety check prior to setting off
• Punctures repaired (new inner tubes are chargeable)
• Free parking on-site
• All rides start and finish at our bike hire base in Lowick
• Guiding and bike hire available all year round

Remember all our guided bike tours are custom made for you, your family or your friends. Telephone or email John about your plans so he can suggest the best options for you. We welcome individual cyclists on their own.

Cycling Lake District

Cycling in the Lake District is very popular, with thousands travelling to Cumbria in the northwest of the UK each year to cycle the Lakes. The Lake District’s passes are an enormous draw for those that want to challenge themselves and with additional cycle trails opening and advances in e-bikes, cycling in the Lake District is also becoming accessible for more leisurely cyclists.

Whether you’re after a Lake District cycling holiday that involves tackling some of the most challenging hill climbs in the UK or you’re looking for a relaxing ride on country lanes through beautiful fells and tranquil villages, you can find it here.  Cycling in Cumbria and the Lake District is a gorgeous, scenic experience, with plenty of options for those with children too.

We created this guide as a starting point for anyone keen to cycle in the Lakes District and have been delighted to update it with the expert help of local cyclist Phil Thomas. Phil is from Kendal in the Lake District and set up E-Bike Safaris with a mission to make cycling the Lake District more accessible to visitors.

Read on for suggestions for cycling routes , where to stay and bike hire .

This article includes details of products and/or services that we have used ourselves or which we would consider using. Some are paid features or include affiliate links where if you click on a link and make a booking or buy something, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our disclosure policy for further information.

What’s special about cycling in the Lakes?

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK in which to cycle. From country lanes to iconic climbs, the scenery is spectacular, and makes for excellent cycling territory.

The Lake District’s cycling climbs are renowned and they’re not for the faint-hearted. The Struggle, near Ambleside, is exactly what the name suggests! Likewise, climbs such as Hardknott, Wrynose, Kirkstone, Whinlatter and Honister Passes are relatively short in distance, but are incredibly steep with maximum gradients of well over 20%.

The locals say that you can call yourself a proper cyclist if you can ride these passes without having to unclip at least once on these brutal gradients! Or you can choose to ignore the bravado and just enjoy yourself, whether that’s by taking it easy on the way up on a regular bike or getting some electrical assistance.

Where is the Lake District located within the UK?

The Lake District lies within the county of Cumbria in northwest England. This National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site covers nearly 2,500 square metres of rugged and beautiful terrain. It boasts both the highest mountain in England, Scafell Pike, as well as some of the deepest lakes in the UK.

The Lake District National Park is bordered by the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines to the east and the Irish Sea to the west. The Scottish border is just an hour’s drive to the north.

Part of the attraction of a cycling trip to the Lake District is that it’s a popular summer holiday destination and so it has lots of tourist facilities. Non cyclists can take part in the traditional Lake District attractions such as fell walking, sailing, paddle boarding or fishing.

Lake District cycling holidays: where to start

All metrics in this article are approximate.

Picking your Lake District cycling routes is important for deciding where to base yourself. The Lake District has routes for all if you know where to look for them.

Below we start with the climbs and harder routes. However, while many of the longer, challenging routes of interest to road cyclists involve hills, there are also a range of easier, more leisurely cycle routes in the Lake District.

In addition, the Lake District’s traffic free cycle routes around Lake Windermere and Grasmere are fabulous. Both Grizedale and Whinlatter forests have innumerable single tracks and trails, although you will probably need a hybrid or (ideally) a mountain bike.

Lake District cycling climbs

Cycling in the Lake District offers a fantastic opportunity to test your legs. There are half a dozen well-known climbs with the hardest being Hardknott Pass and Wrynose Pass.

Hardknott Pass is a 2.2 kilometre climb at an average gradient of 13% with some of the turns reaching around 30%! The nearby Wrynose Pass has a slightly longer ascent with an average gradient of 11% and a maximum of 25% in places… More details below!

The Struggle GPX Download Terms of use reminder

The brilliantly named climb that is “The Struggle” must be the most well-known hill climb in Britain. It starts on the edge of Ambleside and finishes at the top of Kirkstone Pass, which is the highest pass in the Lake District. The climb is 4.2 kilometres long with an elevation gain of 340 metres and a gradient of over 20% in places.

It is a steep climb from the start, weaving through drystone walls and green moorland. There’s a slightly easier mid section and then a series of sharp turns to the finish. The road surface on the way up is also part of the challenge.

At the top you find yourself at the Kirkstone Pass Inn with breathtaking views as you look back towards Lake Windermere. The climb became famous following the 2016 Tour of Britain, ridden by Sir Bradley Wiggins.

Honister Pass

The Honister Pass is one of the most spectacular cycling routes in the Lake District and can be tackled from both directions, approaching from Buttermere on the west or Borrowdale on the east. Either direction will provide you with amazing views and are equally as challenging, with gradients of up to 25%.

Buttermere side

GPX Download Terms of use reminder

The approach from the Buttermere side is the longer of the two ascents, at 3.6 kilometres, and elevation gain of 240 metres. Starting at the picturesque Buttermere village and Lake, the first half of the climb is relatively gentle, with the challenging last two kilometres taking you to the Honister Quarry and Slate Mine.  The looming sides of Buttermere Fell form an imposing backdrop as you grind you way to the summit. Here there is a café and slightly further along are splendid views of Borrowdale Valley and the surrounding rugged fells.

Borrowdale side

To approach from the Borrowdale side, the climb starts from the little village of Seatoller and is about 2.25 kilometres long.  From this direction you immediately encounter gradients of over 20%, easing off for a while just after one kilometre, before another challenging section before the Honister Quarry and the top of the pass. The hard work will be rewarded with the stunning views in both directions.

Wrynose Pass (via Little Langdale)

Wrynose Pass is one of my favourite climbs, particularly as you can combine it with such a range of other routes, including a loop north up past Blea Tarn, or west along the beautiful and tranquil Duddon Valley or Hardknott Pass further west.  But be assured, it’s a challenge!

Starting from Fell Foot Farm, west of Little Langdale, the climb is 2.5 kilometres with an elevation gain of 280m.  After a fluctuating start, from the one kilometre point the climb ranges between 15% to 20% incline for most of the way, with a maximum of about 24% on a hairpin bend towards the top.

At the top of the pass, as well as the memorable views, you’ll find the Three Shires Stone, which marks the point where Westmorland, Cumberland and Lancashire counties once met.

Hardknott Pass

Hardknott might not be the longest climb in the Lake District, but it is reputed to be the hardest cycling climb in the Lake District and the steepest road hill climb in Britain. Depending on the route you are taking, you can climb from either side.

If you are riding it simply for the challenge of the climb, approaching from Eskdale in the west is the more challenging option. The distance is 2.2 kilometres and elevation of 280 metres. Starting about two kilometres east of the Woolpack Inn, it is a brutally tough start, straight into 25% slopes and a cattle grid, before a beautiful winding climb through the fells, reaching a gradient of over 30% on the final harpin bend.

From the top of the pass you look back over stunning views of Eskdale Valley and the sea in the distance. Now it’s just a matter of getting safely down the brutal descent…

Newlands Hause Pass

Your first ride up Newlands Hause Pass (AKA Newlands Pass) will likely stay in your memory for ever, with its stunning start in the picturesque village of Buttermere.  It has a beautiful ascent up the moors until you reach the climax at the magnificent Moss Force Waterfalls at the top of the pass. The climb is 1.95 kilometres long, with an elevation of 190 metres.

Newlands Hause Pass links Buttermere and Keswick. It could be combined with Honister Pass and/or Whinlatter Pass if you would like a challenging day in the north-west Lakes.

Whinlatter Pass

The climb up Whinlatter Pass is longer (4.9  kilometres) than most of the well-known climbs in the Lake District, but without such severe gradients.  It starts from Braithwaite village and unlike many passes in the Lakes, is almost completely treelined. With the elevation of 230 metres, the climb is mostly gradual, with a couple of steeper sections. As a result, much of the ride is quite sheltered in the Whinlatter Forest but there are still some lovely views over Bassenthwaite Lake to the north.

Lake District cycling routes: challenging

Here are some ideas for Lake District cycling loops that take in a number of the main climbs.

When cycling in the Lake District, it’s worth planning carefully to ensure you choose the level of challenge suitable to you. The challenging routes are steep, the descents are short and technical. Be aware that for road cyclists, if you want it to be, the Lake District can be one of the hardest places in the UK to ride your bike.

There are easier options too though – read on for more moderate and easy routes below.

Coniston, Hardknott and Wrynose loop (central and south-west Lakes)

If you want to conquer the Hardknott Pass and Wrynose Pass as well as appreciate the beautiful fells of the south-east Lake District, then this is the ride to do.

With a total of 1,670m elevation, it is challenging but spectacular. Depending on where you are staying, your start and ending could be at any point along the route. If starting in the Elterwater area, where there are ample parking options, set off along the Langdale Valley; over Blea Tarn Pass; Wrynose Pass; Hardknott Pass; turn south-east over Birker Fell; through Broughton-in-Furness; and circle around Coniston Water on your return.

There are a great range of cafés and traditional pub stops along the route, including in Eskdale valley, Broughton and Coniston.

See the Coniston and Wrynose loop option below for a shorter route.

Grasmere, Whinlatter, Hardknott loop (central and north-west Lakes)

This route showcases the amazing variety of scenery and climbs the Lake District can offer, covering the central, northern and western regions, including three of the major climbs on the Fred Whitton route. It includes 1,970m of elevation and 66 miles, making it a challenging but rewarding day’s ride for strong and experienced cyclists.

Setting off from Skelwith Bridge in the heart of the Lakes, the route goes north past Grasmere and on to the tourist town of Keswick (note that at the time of writing Thirlmere Reservoir needs to be passed on the A591 due to the road closure on the western side).  

From Keswick this ride joins a section of The Fred Whitton course at Braithwaite, over Whinlatter Pass, skirting Loweswater and the eastern fells, before the challenging return climbs over Hardknott Pass and Wrynose Pass.

There are great refreshment options along the way in Keswick and also in Eskdale before the challenging final climbs of the day.

The Struggle, Ullswater, Shap loop (central and eastern Lakes)

The route circles the eastern fells of the Lake District, with a total elevation of 1,250 metres, taking in the idyllic scenery around Ullswater.

If you were to start in Troutbeck, the route passes through Ambleside and up The Struggle over Kirkstone Pass, which is the only major climb of the route. From the top of Kirkstone you descend and pass through Glenridding, around Ullswater Lake, through Pooley Bridge, Shap and Staveley.

As well as the breathtaking scenery, this route offers a great choice of refreshment stops along the way, in Glenridding, Pooley Bridge, Shap and Staveley.

Honister, Newlands and Whinlatter loop (north-west Lakes)

Taking in three of the Lake District classic road climbs and another key section of the Fred Whitton course, this route is an epic for cyclists who would like a challenge and the chance to enjoy the stunning beauty of the north-east Lakes. If you start from the Keswick area (Applethwaite being a suggestion), we suggest an early start to avoid the busiest of the tourist traffic along Derwentwater.

Riding on through Borrowdale you find the first climb over Honister Pass to Buttermere.  Here you will take a right turn up Newlands Hause Pass and a welcome break at the magnificent Moss Force Waterfalls. After your descent to Braithwaite, there will be the fresh challenge of Whinlatter Pass before riding on to the pretty market town of Cockermouth.  Finally, there is the loop back around the east of Bassenthwaite Lake.

A great choice of cafes awaits you, including but not limited to, Honister Quarry and Slate Mine, Buttermere, Braithwaite and a good selection in the centre of Cockermouth.

Lake District cycling routes: moderate

These routes are also great for leisure e-bike cycle day rides.

Skiddaw and north Lakes loop (north Lakes)

Another favourite day ride of mine is this lesser visited and spectacular landscape of the North Lakes around the Skiddaw and Blencathra mountain range. Without any major climbs and total elevation of only 620 m, the route takes in incredible scenery along lovely quiet fell lanes via the tranquil villages of Bassenthwaite, Caldbeck and Mungrisdale.

There are a range of cafés and traditional pub food options near Keswick and all along the southern section of the route.  Caldbeck village has several cafes and a shop for refreshments in the north.

Coniston, Duddon Valley and Wrynose loop (central Lakes)

This lovely route explores the central Lakes but without covering as many miles as some of the longer routes above.

Covering 39 miles and a total elevation of 1,250m, it is still a challenging ride, but the ascents are mostly more gradual, and you will experience breathtaking scenery from the top of Wrynose Pass. If you start from Elterwater, the route takes you south along the shores of Coniston Water, then along the peaceful and beautiful Duddon Valley.  From here is the ascent up to the top of Wrynose Pass with the spectacular views and a descent down through Little Langdale. The route can be shortened by following the road along the west of Coniston Water.  Also, a great way to slightly lengthen it (if you are up for another climb), is to turn left after descending Wrynose Pass, cycle up past Blea Tarn and return along the Langdale Valley.

Café options after passing the town of Coniston are limited, but there are options of a detour to the market town of Broughton-in-Furness, or the Newfield Inn at Seathwaite as you cycle up the Duddon Valley. There is The Three Shires Inn when you reach Little Langdale and pubs and cafes in Great Langdale.

South Lakeland loop

This is a great route to explore the Southern Lake District region, with its rolling fells and quiet country lanes. Total elevation gain is 740 metres on this route.

If you start at the Wheelbase Cycle Store in Staveley and go in a clockwise direction, you will soon be high enough for superb views of the Lake District mountains to the north and west and the rolling fells to the south and east. The route follows quiet roads south through picturesque villages to Grange-over-Sands, then meanders in a north-eastern direction through the market town of Kendal and navigates around the fells back to Staveley.

You pass a choice of great traditional pubs and a range of cafes as you go through Cartmel (home to the famous sticky toffee puddings !), Grange-over-Sands and Kendal (home to the famous mint cake!).

You can easily adapt this route to visit attractions of your choice, including along Lake Windermere.

Like Phil to help you with your Lake District trip?

He would love to assist!

Phil’s passion is helping people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike.  For more information, check out their reviews or head to the E-Bike Safaris website.

Use code EBR-EBIKE1 and you’ll receive a 5% discount on any services you book.

Lake District cycling routes: leisurely

While many of the most scenic road cycling routes in the Lakes involve the kind of hilly terrain featured above, you can also find easier rides in many areas of the Lake District that avoid the major hill climbs. As well as the lower gear ratios available and the progress of e-bike technology, cycleways are progressively being developed in the heart of the Lake District.

Below are a few suggestions of routes that include quiet country lanes and some gravel cycle tracks suitable for hybrid and road bikes with gravel tyres.

Grasmere, Wray Castle loop

This is a great way to fully appreciate and enjoy the central Lakes without having to cover too great a distance. If you start near Rydal Water there is a gravel cycle path around the lake and then lanes and cycle tracks taking you south to Wray Castle. From here some gated cycle-friendly tracks and country lanes take you up to Skelwith Bridge and Elterwater.

Moving on, there is a climb both up and then down over Red Bank taking you to Grasmere Village.  Here is Dove Cottage, which was the home of the poet William Wordsworth and where it is possible to buy the famous Grasmere Gingerbread .

There is a huge choice of great refreshment stops all the way around this route.

Staveley Cartmel Fell loop

This relatively short cycle loop around South Lakeland will give you a taste of the Lake District’s beautiful rolling hills as well as great views of the higher Lake District fells.

The route follows relatively quiet country lanes as well as a few sections of quiet, gated lanes as you climb over the moors from Ings to Winster. If you start and end in Staveley there are a range of cafes and pubs, as well as the highly recommended Wilf’s café behind the Wheelbase Cycle Store. The Brown Horse at Winster and Hare & Hounds at Bowland Bridge serve lovely meals or simply a nice pot of tea.

Ambleside, Newby Bridge, Lake Windermere Steamer

This route is a lovely option if you would like to combine a relatively easy Lake District cycle ride with a lovely steamer trip on Lake Windermere.

Either direction works well.

If you cycle from Ambleside, there are cycle tracks parallel to many of the country roads which can be useful, particularly on sections which can have quite a lot of traffic in peak holiday times during the summer.

The steamers usually run on an hourly basis both ways between Waterside near Ambleside to the north and Lakeside just north of Newby Bridge to the south. Detours can be included to visit a range of attractions including Wray Castle, the pretty market town of Hawkshead and Hill Top house, where Beatrix Potter was inspired when writing the Tales of Peter Rabbit.

Lake District cycling routes: easy / children-friendly

The choice and range of easier cycling routes in the Lake District and places where you can confidently cycle with children in the Lake District is constantly growing, thanks to the increasing number of cycle paths and trails.

Of course, you need to consider your child’s age and ability before embarking on a route; what one child is capable of is very different to another. Suggestions include:

Windermere Ferry

People often ask what the best lake to cycle around is; my answer is usually Lake Windermere, because of this ride. Starting from the Windermere ferry is a lovely option, if you are approaching the Lake Windermere area from the south or east.  After the 10-minute ferry crossing, the boat takes you to the cycle path on the western shore of Lake Windermere. From there you can head north to Wray Castle for a picnic (or cup of tea in the tea room) and stunning scenery. Return the same way along the lake shore cycle path and return on the car/cable ferry. Tip: check before you set out to make sure the ferry is operating!

Langdale Valley

In the Langdale Valley, you can cycle from Skelwith Bridge through Elterwater to Dungeon Ghyll and back, all on the gravel path following the river Brathay. This route has a great range of cafes and pubs at Skelwith Bridge, Elterwater and at the top of the valley at Dungeon Ghyll.

Grizedale Forest

There are loads of off-road trails in the Forestry Commission-run Grizedale Forest, with distances from around two to 14+ miles. As well as the graded and technical mountain bike routes, there are miles of forest gravel tracks on either side of the valley. You will also come across over 40 sculptures and works of art. However, please note that the forest trails are quite steep, so if you’re with younger/inexperienced kids, then a good starting point could be from Moor Top car park where you’ll find the easier routes.

Whinlatter Forest

Whinlatter Forest also has some fantastic options for off-road riding, with trails from one to 12+ miles. It’s more suitable for mountain biking but a few short trails are accessible for your kids and there is a café for refreshments.

Keswick old railway

The Keswick old railway line cycle path is a six mile off road route that is quite flat and with a good surface. A convenient place to join it is from the Keswick Leisure Centre, or from the other end of the route at the village of Threlkeld. There are also several spots along the route where you can get access the River Greta for a picnic.

Lake District cycle events

For those looking for a challenge, the Lake District is home to a number of well-known sportives which are perfect as the focus of a Lake District cycling holiday; or maybe just as a standalone reason to visit.

Fred Whitton Challenge

The Fred Whitton Challenge is one of the UK’s classic cycling sportives. It starts in the village of Grasmere and covers 112 miles, including a total elevation gain of 3,150 m. It’s by far the most well-known road cycling event in the Lake District and it’s the ultimate challenge for many UK cyclists.  Established in 1999, the route takes in Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Hardknott, Wrynose and Blea Tarn passes. The event is usually held in May each year. It is generally accepted to be the hardest one-day ride in the UK. (It also made it to our list of the best UK sportives !).

Lakeland Loop

This sportive is a great early season challenge; it’s usually held in April and many riders use it as a warm-up for the Fred Whitton. The Lakeland Loop starts from the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel in Great Langdale. The Loop is about 70 miles long and takes in fantastic views from many of the great Lake District Passes including Whinlatter, Hardknott and Wrynose. It’s one of the oldest events in the Northwest and remains a classic.

Cumbrian Cracker

Another popular Lake District sportive is the Cumbrian Cracker. It’s normally held in November and covers 60 miles. Starting in Grasmere, the route does not have the challenging hill climbs that many of the other sportives include. Instead, it is a lovely ride south round the eastern shores of Coniston Water, on to the famous village of Cartmel and returning via Grizedale Forest, Hawkshead and Ambleside.

Where to stay in the Lake District (for cyclists)

Remember to double-check accommodation bike storage arrangements (and any other services you need) before booking as policies often change.

The Lake District is not the cheapest cycling holiday destination in the world. Yet if you know where to look, you can still find a range of accommodation options to meet all budgets.

Luxury, mid-range and budget options

If you would like a special treat and have a deep enough pocket then there are comfortable hotels and spas in great locations and with some lovely facilities, such as the Langdale Hotel & Spa in Elterwater.

Alternatively, there are a range of youth hostels and bunkhouse accommodation options throughout the Lakes, including central locations such as Ambleside, Grasmere, Elterwater, Coniston and Keswick.

In between the luxury spa and bunkhouse options, there is a whole range of alternative options from tranquil self-catering cottages to 2- and 3-star guest houses and traditional pubs. If you are looking for accommodation in some of the key centres, below are a few suggestions.

The northern visitor centre and market town of Keswick is situated on the Coast-to-Coast cycle route, so many accommodation providers cater for cyclists. For example, the Glendale Guest House is moderately priced, in a convenient location with cycle storage and has a great reputation. The Royal Oak Hotel has facilities for cyclists and then there is the YHA Keswick with its range of accommodation options and cycle storage.

Ambleside is great for cyclists, with lots of amenities and a range of accommodation options including the Brathay Lodge and Rothay Garth guest houses. They are comfortable, conveniently located and have cycle storage options.

The YHA Ambleside hostel is set in a lovely location on the lake shore and a short cycle (15-minute walk) from the town centre.

Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere area have a lot of very comfortable hotels at different levels of facilities and price ranges, as well as smaller guest houses, particularly nearer the town centres. There are good options in central Windermere like the Glen Wynne guest house, and great hotels like the Lindeth Fell Country House nearby.  

Other locations

Other great locations to consider basing yourself for a cycling holiday in the south and central Lake District could include Kendal, Coniston, Hawkshead, Grasmere, Elterwater.

To the north there is Keswick, Cockermouth, Braithwaite or hotels located around Derwentwater, Buttermere or Loweswater.

Bike hire in the Lake District

Prices, services and bike brands often change. Please let us know if anything is incorrect.

Lake District bike hire options focus predominantly on off-road bikes. Road bike rental in the Lake District is harder to come by. These are the options we’ve come across to date:

South and Central Lakes delivery

E-Bike Safaris (E-Bikes / electric bike hire)

Phil says “At E-Bike Safaris we rent our fleet of high specification touring hybrid e-Bikes to visitors wanting to explore the Lakes by bike. We also organise multi-day tours for guests throughout the Lake District.  

When renting bikes from E-Bike Safaris , the bikes are not only delivered to your doorstep, but I am also happy to plot a choice of cycle routes from your location. With my local knowledge and the GPS routes accessed via phone mounts on the handlebars, you’ll find navigating the beautiful scenic routes a pleasure. 

The multi-day tours offered by E-Bike Safaris provide a choice of my favourite routes. They are fully supported with flexible itineraries, daily route briefings, detailed route maps, van and mechanical back-up support, daily luggage transfers and a range of useful accessories for the bikes .”

Country Lanes Cycles (road and mountain bike hire)

Lake District Bike Hire (mountain bike hire)

Total Adventure Bike Hire (mountain and e-bike)

Ulverston – Lake District Bikes (road, mountain, gravel, e-bike hire)

Keswick – Keswick Bikes (mountain bike and e-bike hire)

Ambleside – Biketreks (mountain and e-bikes hire)

When to visit the Lake District

The Lake District is a popular destination all year around. Generally this isn’t too much of a problem, other than in August, when the roads can get very busy.

Both spring and autumn are beautiful times to visit. October can be particularly beautiful, with yellow and gold leaves on the tree, bright skies (if you’re lucky) and wonderful cloud inversions that fill the valleys with mist.

Take the weather seriously

As ever in the high hills and mountains, remember that the weather changes quickly, so be prepared for the worst. It does get a lot of rain and it often snows in winter. However, even when the weather is sub-optimal, the scenery still tends to look beautiful and it all adds to the adventure, right?!

Bring your compact chainset and a 32t if you have it – you’re going to need all the gears you can get up those gradients! We’d also suggest disc brakes.

Gradients and road surfaces

Try and get some experience of both climbing and descending before you arrive. It sounds a bit perverse, but the descending can be tougher (and significantly more hair-raising!) than the climbing on these kinds of gradients. You might want to consider some strength training for your arms if you’re not regularly riding somewhere hilly before you arrive in the Lakes! Alternatively, pick a Lake District bike ride or bike trail that’s less demanding; see above.

Expect bumps and lumps in the road surfaces. As mentioned above, the weather in the Lakes is not one of its highlights and this takes its toll on the road surfaces. Take particular care if it’s been raining as on the steep gradients you may struggle to grain traction.

Factor in the gradients when planning your Lake District rides. As with many mountainous areas, the climbs and their gradients make a big impact on how hard your ride is, so don’t make your day one ride a 100 miler until you’ve seen for yourself what the riding is like. Or you can always hire an e-bike!

Some of the more classic climbs do require cycling on sections of busier, narrow roads, so consider setting out early, to avoid catching too much traffic, especially in summer.

How to get to the Lake District

From London the train journey can be as short as 2 hours 40 minutes.

From Leeds to Oxenholme is roughly 2 hours 10 minutes.

From Manchester to Oxenholme takes as little as 1 hour 10 minutes.

Manchester is the most convenient airport which is a 1 hr 30 mins drive to Kendal. Leeds Bradford airport is a two hour drive to Kendal.

The Lake District is 4 hrs 30 mins from London via M1 & M6. 1 hr 40 mins from Leeds via M62 and M6.

Getting around the Lake District

Getting to and from the Lake District by public transport is a great way to help reduce our carbon footprint. Being able to use public transport as part of your cycling day trips is also possible in some locations, with careful planning. Below are some suggestions:

With rail links on the London to Glasgow line, you can arrive at Kendal (Oxenholme) and Penrith stations to start cycling in the south and north Lakes respectively.

Alternatively, you can transfer to one of the local routes, including the line to Windermere in central Lakes, the Furness line that passes through convenient drop off points such as Grange-over-Sands and Ulverston.

If you would like to base yourself, or start your ride, in the West Lakes, then the Furness line links up with the West Coast line which takes you all the way north to Whitehaven.  Alternatively, you can reach Whitehaven and the West Coast line on the northern train service from Carlisle. Do check with trainlines prior to travel as some require pre-booking for bicycles.

Whilst the Lake District does have quite a comprehensive bus network, at the time of writing the only route which carries bikes is the bus route # 599 service between Kendal and Grasmere, via Windermere and Ambleside.  This is very convenient both for accessing the central Lakes if arriving by train and for combining (making lighter work) of a day’s cycle ride.

Check before you travel as bus routes and rules change frequently.

Ferries and steamers

The cable car ferry that crosses Lake Windermere just south of Bowness-on-Windermere is a very convenient way of accessing the central Lakes, avoiding the busier Lake District roads through Windermere and Ambleside.

It’s also lovely to include a leisurely boat trip in a day’s cycle trip; you can take your bike on a Lake Steamer for part or the full length of Lake Windermere – more details in the routes above. Do check timetables before departure as the times change during the year.

Taxis and transfers

We believe the following taxi companies cater for carrying bikes; contact them direct to confirm:

Lakeside Taxis, Kendal

Airport Transfer services, Kendal

Penrith Taxis, Penrith

Interested in other UK cycling destinations? Head to our UK cycling page here which has links to loads of articles on other UK destinations.

You might also be interested in our pick of the best regions of the UK for a cycling holiday and the best UK sportives .

Got a question for Clare and Phil?

Fill out this form and we will send it to Clare and Phil. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours wherever possible!

We will use this info to send the enquiry to Clare and Phil and/or their team. Our privacy policy explains more and here’s a reminder of our disclosure policy and terms and conditions.

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels – and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they’re there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

Phil Thomas established E-Bike Safaris to make it easier for leisure cyclists to ride the Lake District. As a keen cyclist himself, he says “I set up E-Bike Safaris to help people enjoy the beauty of the Lakes by bike.”  

Prior to setting up E-bike Safaris, Phil has spent time driving overland safaris in Africa, working for international aid agencies as well as spending some years working in the outdoor education field in the UK.  After enjoying a range of adventures, on returning to the Lake District with his family, he has invested all his time and experiences into setting up and promoting E-Bike Safaris.  

The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and risk assessments and take professional advice. Views expressed by interviewees or other users of this website do not necessarily represent our views. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here .

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Last Minute Trips

2025 dates now live, lake district & northumberland cycling tours, explore our lake district cycling holidays, bike northumberland on a guided adventure.

Just three hours from  London , let us show you the north of England at its finest.

Bike the Lake District, Hadrian’s Wall & Northumberland.

• 7 days, 6 nights

Cycle England – the Grand Tour

• 11 days, 10 nights

Cycle the UK – Grand Tour

Prefer to go private.

Whether you prefer to travel on your own, as a couple or with friends and family, we offer a range of guided, private or self-guided tours, so that your Lake District and Northumberland cycling vacation suits you perfectly. Be as active as you like, with tailored routes to suit both beginners and more experienced cyclists. With our handpicked mix of the best routes in the North, enjoy a seamless cycling tour, safe in the knowledge we have everything covered.

Prefer to Walk the North?

If you’d prefer to get out on foot check out our walking tours of the North instead. 

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The north faqs.

The Lake District is in the North West of England, with rugged mountains (fells), dramatic lakes (meres) and deep valleys formed by Ice Age glaciers. It contains England’s highest mountain, and deepest lake, and is both a National Park and a World Heritage Site, in recognition of its natural wild beauty and cultural significance, having inspired generations of poets, writers and artists.

Northumberland is a county in North East England, and lies on the England-Scotland border. It is home to one of the most picturesque and untouched stretches of coastline in the United Kingdom along with rolling hills and gentle mountains.

The best way to travel up North is by train, approximately a 4-hour direct journey from London Paddington to The Lake District (Penrith) and London to Northumberland (Newcastle Train Station) .

All of our self-guided trips begin from the Lake District. We can also arrange pre and post accommodation at a range of different locations so you can arrive relaxed, refreshed and ready to start your tour. You can also fly into Manchester and transfer to the start of the tour from there.

Alternatively we can arrange a private transfer for you from London – the drive is approximately 5 hours. 

The North of England is hillier than many of the other regions of England. However the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales have a variety of routes which makes the regions great biking country and suitable for those who are moderately fit and active. There are many hills, fells and moors but the incredible views from the top more than make up from the climbs! However, you will be able to miss out some of the steeper inclines – or add in some hillier rides for those looking to stretch their legs. There are routes for everyone and we can tailor your tour to your specific preferences.

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A Lake District Grand Tour

Pedalling Through Lakeland: The Challenge, The History, The Wildlife, The Scones

A Lake District Grand Tour by Mike Carden

Pedalling through lakeland: , the challenge, the history, the wildlife,.

The North West Evening Mail: “ For the armchair adventurer, cycling the Lakes with Mike is an enlightening experienc e”

Cumbria Life magazine: ‘ Relaxed and chatty with a ready wit .’

Cycletourer website: ‘ Charming and easily readable. ‘ 

Keswick Reminder: ‘ A very well written book with a chatty humorous style. ‘

Conserving Lakeland magazine: ‘ I thoroughly enjoyed the book. ‘

The Cumbria Magazine: ‘ A sense of humour in abundance. ‘

The Lake District in Books: ‘ I lost count of the wifely queries, “What are you laughing at?”. ‘

In ‘A Lake District Grand Tour’, Mike visits all the lakes of Lakeland, pokes into its most distant corners, and cycles over every mountain pass (well, he attempts to).

Along the way he tells the story of Lakeland. He sees where poets wrote and climbers climbed, he tells of ‘oond trailin’ and fell-racing, and he hunts for golden eagles and elusive ring ouzels.

With his twenty-year-old son alongside him on the ride (actually more often ahead of him, disappearing up a hill) and sharing his sense of humour, Mike’s story of The Challenge, The History, The Wildlife and The Scones is proving popular.

The introduction to

‘a lake district grand tour’.

I had my plan.

“Richard,” I said to my son, “how do you fancy cycling from Brockhole to Bowness as a sort of a Lake District tour?

Brockhole was the Lake District National Park’s Visitor Centre, while Bowness-on-Windermere was probably the busiest tourist spot in Lakeland. From one to the other was about three miles.

I was going to take a detour, of course. I just hadn’t mentioned that yet.

Our journey would be via every lake in the Lake District and over every mountain pass: Ullswater and the Kirkstone Pass; Derwentwater and Honister Pass; Wastwater and Hardknott Pass – and a good few more.

We would visit the towns of Lakeland – Ambleside, Windermere and Keswick, plus the ‘gateways’ to the Lake District – Kendal, Penrith and Cockermouth.

There would be Grasmere for poets; Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top and Arthur Ransome’s Wild Cat Island for the young in us; Langdale and Wasdale for climbers; Hardknott Roman Fort and Cartmel Priory for historians; pubs, tea shops and Cumberland Sausage for, well, me.

We would cycle to the farthest North, South, East and West points in the National Park, well beyond the tourist trail.

We would hunt for red deer and red squirrels, golden eagles and wild ponies, ospreys and ravens, and there was an excellent chance we’d miss every single one of them. (Nature has a bit of a way of eluding me – unless you count Cumberland Sausage and Coniston Bluebird Bitter as Nature. I can usually find them.)

It would be a cycling challenge, a chance to learn about Lakeland, and an excuse to visit one of the most beautiful places in the world.

“Brockhole to Bowness? Is that it? That’s about quarter of an hour on a bike.”

“Well, maybe a little more. I thought we’d go the long way round.”

“Sounds good.”

“OK. When do you have nine days free?”

Buying A Lake District Grand Tour

Order a lake district grand tour..

A Lake District Grand Tour by Mike Carden,  ISBN 978-0-9556602-2-1

The Route of A Lake District Grand Tour

More books by mike carden.

Author page: Mike Carden

Cycle map and bike book buying: Amazon

 —

Lakes of northern italy bike tours

Women's cycling camp italian and swiss lakes, cycling holidays italian and swiss lake district, cycling holidays varese, cycling holidays between italy and switzerland, cycling holidays lake maggiore, cycling holidays lake lugano, cycling holidays on your own, cycling holidays lake varese, cycling in lake district between italy and switzerland, a cycling holiday destination.

At LNI BT, our goal is to help you to make your cycling experience easy, smooth and adventurous in the Italian and Swiss Lake District through offering of group bike tours, private tours and rides on your own.

We would love to hear from you what kind of cyclist you are, what are you really looking for, how far would you like to cycle each day, how much is your average elevation gain throughout a daily ride, so we can suggest the right rides for you here and meet your expectations.

LNI BT is the ONLY one who puts together on Google Maps:

100+ road cycling climbs ,

road cycling routes good for riding,

transport map ,

to make a cyclist's life easier.

The Lake District offers pleasant cycling terrains especially for intermediete and advanced roadies in search of more challenging cycling adventures. It has a network of rides ready to blow your mind. The Lakes are best enjoyed from April through to June and from mid-August through to October, but here the climate makes it possible to go cycling almost all year round.

We are located on the border between Southern Switzerland and Northern Italy at the foot of the Alps . It's a perfect location for a cycling holiday due to a huge number of roads suitable for cyclists and a climate that’s mild most of the year round. The four most important lakes are Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano, Lake Varese and Lake Como . Between and around there are several minor lakes such as Lake Orta , West of Maggiore, Lake Monate and Lake Comabbio , South Varese, and Lake Ganna, Lake Ghirla and Lake Brinzio midway between Varese and Lugano.

Guided group tours, private rides and rides on your own

Guided group tours ,

Private rides ,

Rides on your own .

We love to give you the opportunity to experience the valleys in many aspects, the pictoresque villages, the lakes, mountains and the hidden roads along the way. Thanks to the vastness and diversity of territory, you will easily ride along the shore of the lakes and the banks, or you will toil to climb the valleys of our territory. Lago Maggiore, Lugano and Como have steep shores which are studded with pastel villages and villas with beautiful gardens.

It's a playground for cyclists . We love to ride by bike for fun without forgetting to enjoy what the Northern Italian Lakes have to offer: narrow climbs, fast downhills, ancient villas, parks, churches and hermitages which were built from Sixteenth Century to the Nineteenth Century, exibitions, history, art, culture. Not only biking here during your cycling holiday . Learn more about the best tourist attractions around

Take on the climbs

The roads following the lakes can get a little busy in the height of summer but there are many easy to access climbs that take you away from the shoreline and deliver a double opportunity of views and seclusion. You’ve probably never heard of them, but there’s some massive and excellent climbs in the area. Find out the toughest 10 climbs around , hoping that one day you will have the opportunity to climb up them and coast down them.

You might think that this is not the place for gentle and slow cycling. However, we also planned cycling tours where you can avoid any big hills and medium sized hills too . We are adept at avoiding as many as possible main busy roads during your cycling holidays. Have a look at our guided tours below.

Who are our rides for

Our rides are for:

• who loves climbing up and down the roads each day, searching for the views over the lakes . If you ever have the chance to make these rides around either of these lakes, you really should jump at the chance. It’s such an attractive area that will find it hard to keep your eyes on the road rather than the view.
• who enjoys days of adventure-cycling in the midst of extensive forests, hills and mountains . The region is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding mountains and forests as getting off the beaten track and into the wilderness doesn’t take long at all. The roads following the lakes can get a little busy in the height of summer but there are many easy to access climbs that take you away from the shoreline and deliver views and seclusion.
• who wants experiencing an equipped, enjoyable and flexible road cycling area suited for a pro cyclist . A good number of pro road cyclists have made their home here. Vincenzo Nibali, Filippo Ganna, Fabio Aru, Diego Ulissi, Domenico Pozzovivo, Alberto Bettiol, Enrico Gasparotto, Oscar Freire, Michael Rogers, Candel Evans, the team BikeExchange when in Europe.... It’s virtually impossible to make a 100 km ride on back roads with less than 1,000 - 1,500 metres climbing.

We love sharing info and cycling resources

We run cycling holidays in the Italian and Swiss Lake District , however we love sharing some other cycling resources in the hope this may be useful to help and get started with your planning for road bike rides in the Lake District:

• if you want inspiration and information for your next cycling trip, get stuck into our contents.
• if you enjoy our tours, get in touch with us, so we'll see how we can help you.

Our bike tours in the Northern Lakes of Italy

Weeklong road bike tour Italian and Swiss Lakes

Escape road bike tour Lake Maggiore

Weekender road bike tour Varese

Lake Lugano daily group bike tour

Gentle Cycling Tour Italian Lakes

Women's Bike Tour Italian and Swiss Lakes

Lakes of Northern Italy Bike Tours

We often get asked informazion regarding:

• how is car traffic around the lakes,
• if cyclists are respected on the road.

The Lakes are beautiful. But they are really busy, so much traffic on the main roads and on several lakeside roads. The lakes are lovely, but they do get busy. There's barely anyone up the side valleys. 90% of the traffic is on the main roads, once you turn off you can go hours without encountering another vehicle .

Only a few minutes out of the front door and you can be at the foot of 5-10 kilometres climbs. We think the key to it, if you're going to come here cycling is just ride up passes away from the lakes. And then you get to see even more stuff. Some of the hidden gems are off the beaten track and less well-known ones as well. It's gorgeous up the hills, we'd totally recommend it. The roads are quieter.

The Italian and Swiss drivers are used to see many cyclists here and generally they are patient . You can bump into many different groups of cyclists out for a ride: some looking like pros, some who seemed to be pros and people of all ages.

However we warmly recommend that you don't ride side by side with other cyclists, but in a row especially when there are cars. The drivers can become angry.

Photographer: Lakes Northern Italy Bike Tours Copyright: Lakes Northern Italy Bike Tours Credit: Lakes Northern Italy Bike Tours

E-Bike Safaris Ltd

Small Group Bike Tours in the Lake District

Cycle tours 2024.

Download Lake District Bike Tour Itineraries by clicking on the links below. Check out our summer special offers for each multi-day tour

Multi-Day Tou rs:

1 Day Tours:

*Note: E-Bike Safaris would love to tailor make a tour to capture your choice of routes and accommodation options - just email Phil for details.

Cycle Tours Overview

Our Lake District E-Bike tours are designed to suit all fitness levels (age 14+ years), for leisure cyclists with flexible daily itineraries and timings.  Each multi-day tour has a minimum of 4 and maximum 10 people.

Join one of the tours listed above or let E-Bike Safaris tailor-make your tour with personalized support for a stress-free experience.

We provide:

Our latest fleet of E-Bikes and a range of accessories

Hotel or guest house accommodation

Train station to/from accommodation transfers (if required)

Detailed daily route maps (with proposed attractions and refreshment stops on route)

Vehicle back-up and mechanical support

Daily luggage transfer (when required)

Accessories including helmets (if its not convenient to bring your own), bike rack, panniers, bike locks, bike lights, high vis straps and phone mounts on handlebars for navigation.

Why Choose E-Bike Safaris Tours?

Cycle through some of the most breathtaking scenery in England with its picturesque villages and famous attractions, following our carefully chosen routes.

Explore in comfort on carefully chosen E-Bikes that make cycling up the hills a breeze

Enjoy great local hospitality at cyclist friendly cafes, award winning rural pubs & restaurants as well as the range of Lake District attractions to visit on route

Accommodation carefully chosen, including the options of comfortable hotels, friendly guest houses and traditional country pubs

Most tours start from the vibrant market town of Kendal, also known as ‘The Gateway to the Lakes’ or Windermere

E-Bike Safaris provide high specification E-Bikes with extensive range of accessories including paniers; accommodation; detailed route maps; van & mechanical support; daily luggage transfer (when required); station transfers at the start and end of tours.  Please see detailed itineraries to see what else we include.

Sustainability:

Help us to promote a green environment and reduce traffic congestion, with the use of zero-emissions E-Bikes. We are committed to promoting a cleaner and greener future through promoting the replacement of cars with bikes in the Lake District and beyond.

E-Bikes options

Hybrid E-Bike Step Through

Hybrid E-Bike Crossbar

Bike Size Guide:

These are approximate size guides only – please do contact us if you have any queries

Small: Riders under 5’ 6” inches / 168 cm tall

Medium: Riders between 5’ 7” and 5’ 11” / 170 cm and 180 cm

Large: Riders over 6’ / 182 cm

E-Bike Tours Booking Enquiry Form

Please note this is an enquiry only.

Bookings can be confirmed once E-Bike Safaris has checked availability and responded with a full quotation.

A multi-day tour requires a minimum of 4 participants.

If you need any assistance, please call Phil on 07930 869351

The form is only required to be completed by one party member.

Read our full Terms and Conditions here:

Thank you for submitting your enquiry. Please note this is an enquiry only.

Bookings will be confirmed once E-Bike Safaris have checked availability and responded with a full quotation.

On arrival at start of tour

A tour start point and meeting time will be agreed and communicated well in advance

Meet and greet with other group members and Phil from E-Bike Safaris

The tour itinerary will be reviewed

A full orientation of the equipment will be provided

Signing of the Equipment Rental Agreement

Photo ID and Credit Card details will be required for the deposit in case of damage to or loss of equipment

• Route planner

DIRTY REIVER planned this outdoor adventure with komoot!

Discover your own fun with the #1 outdoor app., lake district reiver.

Better plan each individual stage of your adventure with the multi-day planner — available as a part of komoot Premium.

Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted

You'll need to dismount and push your bike.

0.34 mi in total

Includes a ferry crossing

Check ferry timetable.

• Select Starting Point
• Open in Planner

Tour Overview

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Bike Touring Highlight

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Road Cycling Highlight

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Bike Touring Highlight ( Segment )

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Know exactly what to expect with inch-by-inch surface, waytype, and elevation info.

Weather Forecast

August 18, 2020

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• Report Tour

A good leg stretching day out in the quieter southern Lakes. The route has a good mix of terrain all on good hard surfaces with stunning views back into the mountains.

Short sharp Lakeland climbs punctuate the route as you take in classic locations such as Langdale Valley, Grisedale and Claife.

Great looking route. Do-able on a road bike?

Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.

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SOCIAL MEDIA:    FACEBOOK   INSTAGRAM  

EXPERIENCE AN OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE ON MILES OF FOREST TRACKS

Please refer to our covid procedures on the health and safety policy on our booking form

QUAD BIKE TREK

per person including tuition approximately 80 minutes

QUAD BIKE DETAILS

Minimum Age: 16 years old

We use top spec Can Am 450cc Pro Quads, power steering, hydraulic disc brakes.

We supply helmets and all protective gear necessary

WOODLANd QUAD SKILLS SESSION

per person including tuition approximately 60 minutes

SeSSION DETAILS

MinimuM Age: 16 years old

PLEASE READ SAFETY NOTE ON QUAD BIKE PAGE

per person 

Half days / Full days available

E-BIKE DETAILS

MinimuMAge: 14 years old

Model: HaiBike SDURO Hardseven 5.0

E-BIKES ARE LOADS OF FUN!!

OFF-ROAD ADVENTURES

We offer fantastic off-road quad bike treks in the heart of the Lake District with some of the most stunning scenery in the UK. Follow one of our fully trained, experienced guides through woodland tracks and up hills on the 1000 acre Lingholm Estate, just 4 miles from Keswick. Our tracks are suitable for all abilities, from beginners to experienced riders

CORPORATE BOOKINGS

We provide all of our activities and more in a package to businesses. Our corporate days will feature a mix of off-road and team building activities. We are based on the edge of Derwentwater and can include water sports. We provide a number of facilities including parking, toilets, changing rooms, function room with catering to provide you with everything you'll need for your corporate day. Please contact for further details

TRIP ADVISOR

VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

Check out what's happening at Lake District Off-Road's very popular facebook page. See our latest photos and see what our customers are saying. 

We provide all of our activities and more in a package to businesses. Our corporate days will feature a mix of off-road and team building activities. We are based on the edge of Derwentwater and can include water sports. We provide a number of facilities including parking, toilets, changing rooms, function room with catering to provide you with everything you'll need for your corporate day.Please contact for further details

HOW TO FIND US

From the A66, turn off at the Portinscale junction. Follow the road through the village for 2 miles (Do not turn off at the Lingholm kitchen). Follow the signs for Hawse End Adventure Centre. Just before the centre turn left through the private gate (Derwent bay). Turn left at the bottom of the drive.

HAVE A QUESTION?

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Registration underway for 2024 Tour de Buckeye Lake cycling event

B UCKEYE LAKE — Registration is underway for the Tour de Buckeye cycling event which takes place on Saturday, Aug. 17 and is expected to attract more than 600 cyclists from across the region.

There are three routes to choose from: an 11-mile route mostly on the Buckeye Lake Dam trail, perfect for families and leisure riders, a 28-mile route that adds countryside, and a 63-mile ride that includes beautiful Dawes Arboretum for all riders who want to achieve that major milestone. There will be a post-ride cycling expo in addition to other festivities.

As in past years, basecamp for Tour de Buckeye Lake will be at the Millersport Lions Club, where registration will be held and the ride will begin and end. Popular local musicians will entertain cyclists and spectators throughout the event — Mike Ray will be playing prior to the ride while Big Bad Stache will play from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the after-party

Registration and more details about the event can be found at bikebuckeyelake.org. All proceeds of the Tour go to improving biking and hiking safety as well as the continued development of a multi-purpose trail around Buckeye Lake.

The tour is hosted by the volunteer-run organization, Bike Buckeye Lake, in collaboration with local organizations and businesses. Bike Buckeye Lake, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, was founded in 2015 to foster healthy, vibrant and sustainable communities. The group promotes the creation of safe trails that connect towns and points of interest around Buckeye Lake. The goal is to make walking, running and cycling safe, convenient, and accessible for residents and visitors to the lake.

Bike Buckeye Lake also organizes two events that support children in the communities surrounding Buckeye Lake. Through the generosity of donors, the organization’s annual Christmas Bike Drive has given over 1000 bikes and helmets to economically disadvantaged children. The group also kicked off its inaugural Buckeye Lake Tri-County Kids’ Bike Safety Rodeo in May where children guided their bikes through a course of 13 stations designed to address specific bike handling and safety issues.

For more information about these events, visit bikebuckeyelake.org.

This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Registration underway for 2024 Tour de Buckeye Lake cycling event

Medina County Park District volunteers tour future Chippewa Lake Park sites

• Published: Jun. 26, 2024, 8:00 a.m.

On June 13, a group of volunteers boarded a van driven by Volunteer Coordinator Judy Soroczak and led by Park Director Nate Eppink to explore the history, ongoing progress and upcoming opportunities of Chippewa Lake and its surrounding properties. Mary Jane Brewer, special to cleveland.com

• Mary Jane Brewer, special to cleveland.com

MEDINA, Ohio -- If working in the parks and enjoying their multitude of activities and opportunities isn’t enough to lure and reward volunteers, the Medina County Park District offers social and educational outings as a thank-you for their hard work.

On June 13, a group of volunteers boarded a van driven by Volunteer Coordinator Judy Soroczak and led by Park Director Nate Eppink to explore the history, ongoing progress and upcoming opportunities of Chippewa Lake and its surrounding properties.

During eight stops along a circuit of the lake in southwestern Medina County, the guests learned about the park and its future use.

Chippewa Lake is the largest glacially formed inland lake in Ohio. The lake itself was purchased by the park district in 2007.

The first stop on the tour was at 7464 Lake Road, where a half-acre lot holds a three-bedroom, 1,000-square-foot home built in 1920 at the north end of the former amusement park property. Mary Jane Brewer, special to cleveland.com

Over the years, the district purchased properties on the west side of the lake. In 2020, the district was able to purchase the property formerly utilized as Chippewa Lake Amusement Park.

The amusement park operated from 1878 to 1978, featuring rides, a hotel and a ballroom.

Until 2020, the property was allowed to become overgrown. The lake itself was plagued by pollutants flowing into it from the abandoned property and surrounding farms.

The park district, using funds from the state, is in the process of creating wetlands and enhancing streams to protect the lake.

When you stroll through tall grass, you need to check yourself for ticks. Mary Jane Brewer, special to cleveland.com

The first stop on the tour was at 7464 Lake Road, where a half-acre lot holds a three-bedroom, 1,000-square-foot home built in 1920 at the north end of the former amusement park property.

The park district has formed a partnership with the Chippewa Lake Historical Society (CLHS) to use this home as a small indoor museum.

CLHS will maintain the property as its headquarters.

The surrounding yard will feature artifacts from the former amusement park, including a ticket booth and ride cars.

Medina County Parks Director Nate Eppink points out the paddle craft launch area into Chippewa Lake. Mary Jane Brewer, special to cleveland.com

A small parking lot will offer access to a 1- to 1½-mile crushed limestone trail leading into a wooded area.

A later stop on the tour led to a short hike through the overgrown property. A “tick check” followed the walk through tall grass, planted as part of a program to improve water quality and funded by a $2.1 million grant.

The park has completed some stream-related projects to slow water flowing into the lake. One project has widened stream beds and lined them with stones to prevent erosion following heavy rains.

Another project creates “pillows and cradles,” otherwise known as “hummocks and hollows,” to hold back stormwater on the sides of the streams and trails and to provide habitat for wild critters.

The hummocks look like piles of dirt, branches and other natural debris, but serve an important purpose.

A stop at 8108 Lake Road led to a paddle craft launch, where canoes and kayaks can be launched into a stream leading to the lake.

A small parking lot surrounded by wetlands is open from May through October. No trails lead away from the launch area, but fishing is allowed.

Stop No. 6 beside a weather station on Ballash Road revealed a future Birding and Bridle Trail. A total of 118 acres of current fields will house a trail suitable for hiking and horseback riding.

A planned parking lot large enough for horse trailers, a restroom and a picnic area should be open for seasonal use later this fall.

Considered a “birding hot spot,” the 1½-mile trail with a “primitive hiking surface” may be open as soon as Aug. 1.

The final stop on the tour was at the Smykal property at 6400 Chippewa Road.

The 44-acre donation by the Smykal family, appraised at a half-million dollars, will directly connect to the Krabill property on the west side of the lake.

No dwellings are on the property and there are no current plans to develop it except for a possible future hiking trail.

The family lives in Michigan and has used the land for camping in the past. They wanted to save it for others to enjoy in its natural state.

Materials, donations and volunteers will be needed for the Chippewa Lake museum. Please contact [email protected] if you would like to get involved or if you have memorabilia you would like to donate.

For information about Chippewa Lake, visit chippewalakeohio.com .

To learn more about the Medina County Parks, events or volunteer opportunities, log on to www.medinacountyparks.com .

Read more from the Medina Sun .

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