Waymarked Trails in Hamsterley Forest

	Green	[ Memory Map route ]
Rating:	Easy / family
Gradient:	Shallow.
Terrain:	Compacted surface 2-3 metres wide
Suitable for:	Occasional cyclists and families
Start point:	Visitor Centre
Length:	3 miles
Single track %:	5%
Average time:	45 minutes

	Blue	[ Memory Map route ]
Rating:	Moderate
Gradient:	Moderate with some steep sections that may have to be walked.
Terrain:	Compacted surface 2-3 metres wide
Suitable for:	Experienced cyclists with an average level of fitness
Start point:	Visitor Centre
Length:	9 miles
Single track %:	0%
Average time:	2 hours

	Red	[ Memory Map route ]
Rating:	Difficult
Gradient:	Prolonged ascents and descents.
Terrain:	Variable terrain
Suitable for:	Experienced cyclists with good level of fitness
Start point:	Grove Car Park
Length:	10 miles
Single track %:	15%
Average time:	2 hours

	Black	[ Memory Map route ]
Rating:	Severe
Gradient:	Steep with drop off’s. (Please note that the memory map route is currently not that accurate for sections off the fire roads).
Terrain:	Mostly narrow rooty single track
Suitable for:	Expert mountain bikers
Start point:	Visitor Centre
Length:	7 miles
Single track %:	50%
Average time:	1 hour

Grove Link Route

This excellent newly-laid trail connects the Visitor Centre with the Grove Car Park so avoiding the tarmac road and any conflict with vehicle. Click for a map.

Hamsterley Downhill Course

Descend mountain biking is Hamsterley’s very own extreme downhill mountain bike club. The main downhill course is split into two sections by a forest road and has something for everyone. The top section is fast and flowing with berms, drop-offs and a huge table-top jump, whilst the bottom section is rocky, steep and technical with switchbacks to finish.

There is also a mini-duel course to warm up on. Riders must park in the Grove car park and register at the Descend cabin at the mid point of the course. The club also offers coaching for individuals and youth groups. For more information call 0191 5654368.

Trail Quest

Trail Quest is orienteering on a bike with control points spread throughout the forest. Collect a control card from the Visitor Centre then navigate your way round the forest to various control points marked in yellow on the map. Stamp your control card and collect point scores as you go. The further away the point the higher the point score.

The Forest Cycle Code

• Expect the unexpected, keep your speed down

• Remember other vehicles use the forest roads as well as you!

• Give way to walkers, be friendly towards other forest users

• Hail a horse and avoid an accident

• Danger! Keep away from forest operations and follow diversions

• Danger! Do not pass any vehicle loading timber until you have been told to do so

• Footpaths are for walkers only!

• Cycle with care and come back again

Other Routes

Hamsterley Forest via Doctor's Gate
A 21 mile route starting from Hamsterley village taking in Hamsterley Forest via Doctor's Gate. Comprises both tarmac and off road sections.