• DISTANCE: 16 miles
  • ASCENT: 3,082 feet
  • GRADE: Difficult

From the early days of mountain biking in the UK, Walna Scar Road has been a rite of passage for those seeking Lakeland's toughest challenges.

This classic route takes you to the heart of the Lake District before leading you back over the high mountain pass of Walna Scar to return to your start point at Coniston.

This is a tough ride for experienced mountain bikers - make sure your bike is in working order and you have all the food, water, and equipment you need to complete the route.

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The route

Starting from Coniston, follow the A593 through Torver. Go past the village, then turn left into Hummer Lane.

You're still on the tarmac but this will offer a tough challenge as the road ramps up to more than 14%.

After struggling to the top of the climb enjoy a brief downhill stretch before turning off into woods on the right.

Sadly, you're now going to lose all the height you gained as you drop through the woods at Broughton Moor, emerging into a narrow country lane.

Turn right, then look out for the (easily missed) bridleway on the right as you approach a hamlet.

This bridleway leads you on a slog over open moorland before a great descent, starting on rolling grassland before merging into a steep rock-strewn trail leading to the village of Seathwaite.

Turn right and follow the road until a right fork leads you to the foot of Walna Scar Road.

A rocky start will test your technical skills before a huge drag over a hard-pack surface to the top of the pass.

With the gradient peaking at more than 20%, this is a massive test of your fitness. Can you pedal it all in one go?

After a rest at the top you'll be ready to tackle one of the great off-road descents. You'll find everything here - big rocks, loose gravel and everything in between. Keep your wits about you, as it's fast and the technical sections come thick and fast.

If you take time to enjoy the views you'll have chance to see the Old Man of Coniston and Dow Crag as you descend.

Arrive at the car park at the foot of the Old Man of Coniston, then its a final steep drop on the tarmac to take you back to the start.

  • Have you got a great route you'd like to share? Send your photos, descriptions and Strava routes to bob.hart@nqnw.co.uk