Starting and finishing in Stalybridge town centre, the Tame Valley Loop(s) consists of three routes (5.6, 16 and 29 kilometres).
The routes brings together existing paths, off-road tracks and trails on the edge of the peak district national park. Offering stunning views and easy access from the city of Manchester. The aim off the waymarked route is to introduce mountain bikers to the area, to provide an easy-to-follow trail and to lead to new areas to be explored.
The route provides a good introduction to the area for experienced riders or a good day's challenge for the new riders.
Advanced route: Distance: 29km Blue graded MTB route provides a hilly ride with a good variety of scenery and trails. Starts in the centre of Stalybridge then uses tracks on the hillsides overlooking Stalybridge and Mossley, and out as far as Greenfield in Oldham before returning to Stalybridge on the opposite side of the Tame Valley.
Intermediate route: 16km mountain bike route with less demanding off-road sections than the full Advanced Loop.
Directions: follow the Advanced Route directions up to the end of point B then: After 20m TL into the wood then take the left path signed Oakgates and descend to a barrier across a road. Pass through the barrier to traffic lights, go SA. Now follow from point G in the Advanced Route directions.
Family route: 5.6km (out & back). An out and back cycle using an off -road multi-use trail.
Access to the trail is available from several points: Station Road in Mossley, various streets in Roaches, Station Lane in Greenfield, the Friezland Riding Arena, and the layby/parking area at the junction of Manchester Road and Huddersfield Road. The route is split by Manchester Road and Huddersfield Road where caution is required crossing over.
Route type: Off-road trails