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#MileDownTrail #KielderForest #DownhillMountainBiking #VeloSolutions #NorthernDownhill #MountainBikeTrails #UKCycling #ForestryEngland #ManonCarpenter #AdamBrayton #DeadwaterTrail #LonesomePine #ReiversTrail #LakesideWay #KielderCycleCentre
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The new “Mile Down” trail at Kielder, a collaborative effort between Forestry England, Velo Solutions, and Northern Downhill (NDH), has officially opened, marking a significant addition to the UK’s largest forest trail network. This new red-graded trail, featuring both black and double black diamond options, complements the existing blue mountain bike trails of the Lonesome Pine, the Reiver Gravel Trail Network, and the 26-mile Lakeside Way. The lower half of the Mile Down trail is now open, with the full 1.69-mile trail set to be completed in the coming months, potentially making it one of the longest downhill trails in England.
The trail was designed to offer a progressive riding experience, incorporating a mix of rock features, flow sections, jumps, and technical challenges. International riders Manon Carpenter and Adam Brayton were among the first to test the trail, with Carpenter praising the variety of features and Brayton expressing excitement for the trail’s full completion. The trail’s design and construction were led by Velo Solutions, with significant contributions from NDH volunteers and Forestry England.
The project has been a long-term vision for the region, with planning and development spanning over two decades. The trail network at Kielder has evolved significantly since its inception, with the addition of trails like the Osprey, Lonesome, and Deadwater, as well as the Reiver Gravel Trail Network. The Mile Down trail represents a higher grade of technical trail, catering to more experienced riders while still offering options for a range of skill levels.
The opening of the Mile Down trail is seen as a key milestone for Northumberland and the wider region, with the trail network now offering something for every level of cyclist, from beginners to advanced riders. The project has been supported by a range of partners, including the Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust, Northumberland County Council, and Visit Northumberland, as well as local communities and businesses.
The trail’s construction presented significant challenges, including difficult ground conditions and the need to navigate glacial boulder fields. However, these challenges have contributed to the trail’s unique character and design. The opening of the trail has been celebrated by the local cycling community, with riders and builders alike expressing pride in the project’s completion.
The Mile Down trail is part of a broader effort to establish Kielder as a premier destination for cycling in the UK, offering a diverse range of trails and experiences for riders of all disciplines. The trail network’s development has been driven by a commitment to creating a sustainable and inclusive cycling environment, with a focus on connecting people with the natural landscape and promoting the benefits of cycling for health and well-being.
The opening of the Mile Down trail is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of all those involved in the project, from the trail builders and volunteers to the local community and supporting organizations. As the trail network continues to grow and evolve, Kielder is poised to become a leading destination for cyclists seeking adventure, challenge, and connection with the natural world.
