Reviews for Altura Trail - Whinlatter Forest

Summary:
My new favourite trail to date

Review:
I did the north loop back in August then returned in Sept to do both north and south loops. The north loops really really impressed me but after doing the south loop for the first time it didnt really stand out to me.
However I have just been back and done both loops again, I went with the intention of doing both loops and then doing a 2nd lap of which ever one i felt like, after the previous visits i was sure the north loop would be getting the 2nd lap due to the DH sections in the last stages but to my surprise it was the south loop which had me begging for more. Dont get me wrong there is not a great deal in it and had I had the time I would have done them both twice.
But the south loop totally surprised me, I dont know why I dont remember it being that awesome but the DH had me grinning from ear to ear.
To say this is my favourite trail so far says a lot considering I have ridden all of the 7stanes, kielder, dalby, hamsterly, drumlanrig, grizedale + more. it just ticks all the boxes; quality singletrack uphills loaded with tight switch backs, brief forest road sections, quality technical bits, tricky roots here and there, sniffs of north shore but most importantly fast flowing airy DH, Glentress is a very very close 2nd.
If you get the chance go for it, you'll love it

Summary:
Awsome

Review:
i went there for the first time ever today it was a great trail. There are no real diffcuilties with this trail apart from a little sketchey bit in the woods. This is a great trail and would reckon mend it to people who like xc

Summary:
North loop. Very XC. Tough technical red grade.

Review:
Went when it was very wet, cold and raining. Found the trail to be well made and well designed. It's worth warning those who might be scared of heights about the big drops to one side of the trail at some points. Combine that with off-camber trail surface and it can be a bit scary in some places. It's technically difficult too with rocks and a lot more roots than I would have expected for a red grade trail. Noticed a few little optional black sections too for those looking to really test their skills. Fine in the wet. No mud, just plenty of sharp looking stones. I wouldn't like to come off on that trail surface. I thought the place had very commercial feel to it. Trail maps that are free at Seven Stanes will cost you ?1 from the bike shop. The parking was awkward with a few drivers scraping their cars with there being such little room for manouver in places. Parking more than 4 hours will cost you ?6. Never found the cafe and there was little shelter and only a few places to sit. No sign posts to help new arrivals find trails or cafe. Toilets were nice and warm though. Great trail but I did'nt like the set-up or vibe.

Summary:
Excellent!

Review:
We went there for the first time in Aug and the weather was dry and the trails were briliant. We did the North loop twice, the South and Blue once each. To me the South was better but I think it could be even better if it had more stuff like more northshore. there a few little bits but more the better I think. Execllent facilities and the Go Ape looks good too!

Summary:
Superb Trails, great facilities, amazing views

Review:
I recently visited Whinlatter forest and was advised by the lad in the shop to ride the Blue route linking in with the South Red loop. I then stopped for Coffee and cake and completed the North Red Loop.

I had a scream!!. It was very wet due to downpours the day before but it didnt hamper the expereince.
The blue route was a nice warm up.
The red south loop basically half climbing and half descending with an amazing view at the top (see my pics). The descent was fast and flowing with a few drops to keep you on your toes.
The Red north loop is more technical with smaller climbs and descents mixed together.
The final descent is amazing! just be carefull not to get to carried away on the jumps and end up at a tight Bermed switchback carrying too much speed.