Has spring sprung? 🙏 A quick lap of the Beast, a popular choice for mountain bikers for decades, is one of our favourites. Not the most technical, but enough to keep you on your toes. And easy to add into loads of routes using the climb up Elmin Pits, thanks to Peak District MTB
6 Years ago we did a full trail preview video with Billy from Cafe Adventure
The trail features in many of our routes see below for some examples.
Two routes that feature the Beast
The Beast of Hope Cross
Difficulty: Medium
Length: 11 miles (17.7km)
Elevation Gain: 1,220ft (370m)
This ride is a perfect sample of the Peak District and the variety of trails it offers, from the old railway lines of the Thornhill Trail to the rocky technical descents of The Beast.
The 11 mile loop has something for everyone and provides some incredible views. Over the Mam Tor Ridgeline. The Beast descent is challenging and does require a certain amount of bike control and confidence. Large rocks and loose stones can throw experienced riders off however it is a brilliant descent if you have the confidence.
Caves and Castles
Difficulty: Challenging
Length: 24 Miles (38km)
Elevation Gain: 4,500ft (1370m)
This is a demanding loop with six significant climbs followed by six brilliant descents. There is a mix of every trail here from the fast flowing open grass descents of Win Hill to very technical boulder fields of Cavedale. Make sure you have your climbing legs as this route climbs almost 4,500ft (1,370m) over 24 miles (38km).
And could be easily linked to many others.
