Best UK Trails for Electric Mountain Bikes: Where to Ride Off-Road Legally
If you own an electric mountain bike (E-MTB), you probably can’t wait to take it off the beaten track. The good news? The UK is home to some incredible trails that welcome e-bikes, offering everything from smooth gravel paths to technical forest descents.
But here’s the catch : not every trail is legal for electric bikes, especially those that exceed UK power limits. This guide covers where you can ride legally, and the best UK trails for electric mountain bikes, so you can focus on the fun without worrying about the law.
1. Understanding UK E-Bike Riding Laws (Quick Overview)
Before we dive into trail recommendations, let’s cover the basics.
✅ E-bikes that meet UK legal standards (250W motor, pedal assist up to 15.5mph/25kph) can be ridden on public bridleways, cycle paths, and byways open to all traffic.
✅ More powerful e-MTBs (like SurRon or Talaria dirt bikes) are classed as electric motorbikes and can only be ridden on private land with the landowner’s permission.
➡️ Learn more from the UK Government guide on electric bike rules.
2. Top Legal E-MTB Trails and Centres in the UK
⚡ Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
The Forest of Dean boasts purpose-built mountain bike trails, including family routes and downhill tracks for thrill-seekers. E-MTBs are welcome on most trails, and you’ll find charging points at the trail centre.
➡️ Trail info: Forestry England - Forest of Dean Trails
⚡ Coed y Brenin, Snowdonia, Wales
A must-ride for electric mountain bikers! Coed y Brenin offers graded trails ranging from green to black, ideal for testing your battery range on climbs and descents.
➡️ Trail info: Natural Resources Wales - Coed y Brenin
⚡ Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire
Dalby is known as the Great Yorkshire Forest and features over 70km of trails suitable for e-MTB riders. It has a good mix of technical sections and family-friendly routes, and charging stations are available.
➡️ Trail info: Forestry England - Dalby Forest
⚡ Glentress, Tweed Valley, Scotland
One of Scotland’s best-known trail centres, Glentress offers everything from flowy blue runs to technical black descents. E-MTBs are welcome, and the steep climbs make pedal-assist a game-changer.
➡️ Trail info: Forestry and Land Scotland - Glentress
⚡ Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
If you’re Midlands-based, Cannock Chase offers red and blue trails, with smooth gravel paths and gnarly singletrack. It’s a fantastic place for e-MTB riders to test endurance and battery management.
➡️ Trail info: Forestry England - Cannock Chase
3. What to Bring for E-MTB Trail Riding
Riding electric mountain bikes off-road takes a little more prep than regular MTB riding. Here’s my checklist before heading out:
✅ Helmet (certified for off-road use)
✅ Protective riding gear (especially knee and elbow pads)
✅ Spare battery or charging solution
✅ Hydration pack
✅ Multi-tool and tyre repair kit
✅ GPS or trail map app (Komoot or Strava recommended)
➡️ Don’t forget: If your e-bike exceeds UK legal limits, make sure you’re riding on private land with the right permissions.
✅ Conclusion
The UK has amazing trail centres and routes where e-MTBs are welcome. From Welsh forests to Scottish highlands, these spots are a playground for riders who want a boost on the climbs and thrills on the descents.
At SparkX E-Bikes, we’re passionate about helping riders like you get the most from their electric mountain bike adventures. Whether you’re looking for long-range batteries, upgraded accessories, or trail-ready e-MTBs, we’ve got you covered.
👉 Explore our electric mountain bikes and accessories today and get trail-ready!