A NEW map of biking routes in Swaledale is being launched this week ahead of the return of a major off-road event.
Swaledale by Bike features eight tried and tested rides from Reeth, recommended by the Dales Bike Centre at Grinton, with a 1: 40,000 map on one side showing gravel routes and a more detailed 1: 25,000 map on the reverse showing mountain bike routes.
It has been produced using OS data under licence, and also includes the Swale Trail, as well as all the cycle rights of way in the area, including bridleways, byways and National Cycle Route 71, allowing cyclists to devise their own routes.
The cover of the new map of biking routes in Swaledale
The map was launched yesterday at the Dales Bike Centre, which is hosting the Ardrock Enduro this weekend. The event is the UK’s premier natural trails Enduro and mountain bike festival and involves three days of racing in Swaledale.
The last two Ardrock events were cancelled – in 2019 following devastating floods, and in 2020 by the Covid pandemic.
An Ardrock spokesperson said: “This year’s event promises to deliver the same great racing and riding, same great Swaledale scenery, a great atmosphere as always but with a long list of refinements to the site layout, program and vibe to make it Covid secure.”
Some of the new measures being taken include asking all attendees to take a Covid test before setting off to the event, and a new practice loop which avoids passing through residential areas.
Swaledale by Bike Cycle Map costs £5 from Heritage House Maps. See www.heritage-house.co.uk/
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