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Swaledale Outdoor Club |
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Swaledale Outdoor Club |
| > Home > Newsletter > Mountain Biking > Hamsterley Horrible |
Hamsterley HorribleThis was the third time I'd led a ride starting at Hamsterley forest, and because of the continuing problems with access due to Foot & Mouth in the area I had decided to cobble a route together from the existing waymarked routes within the forest. My rides must be gaining an unfavourable reputation, as the attendances have dropped on every occasion with nobody coming out more than once. This time I had three newcomers to the section with me. Paul & Gina, who hail from Sheffield but are moving to Catterick, and Dave who was from Eaglescliffe. We set off and followed the Blue route as it snaked up the hillside away from the visitor centre. We had a minor detour off piste as I headed up the wrong track (they all look the same!) with a technical descent through the trees back onto the blue route. We followed the blue route past the downhill course, where we saw a rider ride down and then stop at the trail junction - maybe he was put off by spectators! Soon after that the trail narrows through the trees before descending to Blackling Hole. At Blackling Hole we then joined the red route and started the long steady climb to Neighbour Moor. The waymarked route was closed where the bridleway across Eggleston Common joins, a swift diversion saw us rejoin the route ready for a great descent back down to the valley floor, which was interrupted only by meeting a convoy carrying Toffs and shotguns intent on having grouse for supper - obviously the access restrictions don't apply if you have enough money! Once back at the Grove, we warmed down along the forest drive back to the cars. Many thanks to my riding companions for a really good ride, and to mother nature for providing glorious weather to ride in. Gary Dawes |