Gravel Riding in the Forest of Dean

Gravel riding is the perfect way to explore the Forest of Dean, one of the UK’s largest ancient woodlands. Whether you’re an experienced rider, or just starting out, the Forest of Dean offers an adventure for everyone. 

Escape the busy roads and enjoy the diverse terrain and breathtaking scenery that can be found across the forest.

If you’re not sure where to start, try the Colliers Trail - a fully waymarked, circular route taking in many of the forest’s most popular spots, including the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre, Beechenhurst and Mallards Pike.

If you’re ready for something longer, the forest is home to hundreds of miles of wide, gravel forest roads and singletrack bridleways. You can travel across the forest to most of the nearby towns and villages without needing to go on a main road, so grab a map and start plotting your perfect route. 

Why ride gravel?

• The wide forest roads means its easy to ride as a group – making it a very sociable form of riding.
• It’s a fantastic way of exploring the forest. Its quicker than walking and lets you see some of the unique scenery, heritage and wildlife that make the Forest of Dean so special.
• The varied terrain make it a great workout, and with so many route options no two rides will ever be the same.

Top tips

• Apart from the Colliers Trail, our gravel routes are not waymarked, so make sure you have an OS map or navigation app to help you find your way. Routes may be closed if we are felling trees and so you may need to be prepared to find another way.
• Gravel routes are not inspected and trail conditions change throughout the year. Check the weather before you go and always ride prepared.
• The Forest of Dean is a working forest, and the forest roads are used by timber lorries during harvesting. Make sure you follow any safety signage. 
• During your ride you may encounter other woodland users, horses, dogs, wildlife or vehicles. It is a shared forest, so please be respectful of others.