Castle Wood Skills Loop - Kielder Castle

The Castle Wood Skills Loop has been built to show mountain bikers what they can expect from similar grade trails that are planned to appear in Kielder Forest. The blue grade section of Castle Wood Skills Loop is half a kilometre long, single-track that is roughly 1 metre wide with a fine, solid surface.

There are slight gradients as well as ground level north shore style decking, bridges and some berms. Blue grade trails are intended for the beginner or novice rider. The red grade trail is a spur within loop of the blue grade trail. Shorter but more challenging than the blue trail, the red trail is typically less than 1m wide with a loose surface. The obstacles and gradients are also more challenging. Red grade trails are intended for the intermediate rider.

Finally, a short black grade section can be accessed from the red grade section. This contains highly technical features and is designed for expert riders. New in 2009 is the Trials Area where highly proficient riders can hone their jumping skills or practice on testing north shore.