MTB Derbyshire: Derwent Valley

Описание: Previously, on my cruise around Cromford, Grangemill and Bonsall it is fair to say I didn't raise my pulse too much. I perhaps didn't want to do much more in the way of tech or physicality as I was coming down with a lurgy, that was still with me on this ride (and frustratingly still do as I type). This year for me will go down as one where my immune system has struggled to keep up with the stuff flying about.

Thing is, the last ride may have been the one my body wanted but my brain and adrenaline glands desired more. You find that that you crave more tech even if you can't ride it all brilliantly it just satisfies so much more and this ride delivered on that.

As stated I was still not feeling fantastic and didn't quite know how I was going to react to a punishing ride. So I thought I would stay fairly local and managed to talk Marc into joining me on this one. It is a route I have only done a couple of times but it offers some great descents. On this visit it also offered absolutely stunning conditions. Really cold at first (proper ice scrape for the first time this season as well as the 100% Brisker gloves), but those skies and that sun for October.....it's Dreamland. It really lifted the spirits as did all the laughs on the way around.

This ride is almost in two parts the first is a climb that takes you up to Whinstone Lee Tor then further along Derwent Edge. The views up along here are off the scale in these conditions. A well surfaced trail offers protection from damage and width to allow safe passage for all. It doesn't really kick in though until you start heading back to the water and the final run offers two really fun, tricky, technical options. Which one do you choose? Well both of course. Bit of a hike a bike but certainly worth it.

Only about 13 miles in total, this had the scope to be extended over to Lockerbrook or Hagg farm, but on this visit we both felt like we had done enough and quit when we were definitely ahead. Great trails, there were a few people out enjoying the day and why not ....a little sun lifted everyone's spirits as they were all so friendly.

I am pretty sure this will be the last day of its kind this year for such glorious weather. So glad I went out and this route was equal to the conditions.

Marc's Channel -    / @hallmarc_trails  

Marc's Version of the ride:
   • Ladybower & Derwent Loop | Featuring The L...