Northern Trilogy - Dales Dynamic
21st June 2025
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable gravel adventure through Swaledale and Wensleydale, showcasing Yorkshire’s most iconic landscapes. The route weaves along the Swale Trail, past the historic Castle Bolton, and onto the rugged Pennine Way, offering dramatic views and exhilarating terrain. Ride to the legendary Tan Hill Inn, the UK’s highest pub, before descending through Gunnerside and across breathtaking limestone pavements. This ride blends challenging climbs, flowing gravel, and timeless scenery for an epic day in “God’s Own County.”
Highlights:
- Epic Landmarks: Visit iconic sites including Castle Bolton, the Tan Hill Inn (the highest pub in the UK), and the historic trails of the Pennine Way.
- Diverse Terrain: Experience smooth gravel on the Swale Trail, rugged limestone pavements, and exhilarating climbs and descents through Gunnerside and moorland.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Revel in panoramic views of Swaledale and Wensleydale, two of Yorkshire’s most stunning dales, showcasing unspoiled natural beauty.
Epic Route
A challenging but rewarding 90km journey with 1,700m of elevation. Expect steep climbs, fast-flowing gravel, and hidden gems. Ideal for experienced riders, this route is best tackled with 40-45mm gravel tyres for comfort and grip on mixed terrain.
Adventure Route
A balanced 65km adventure with 1,220m of climbing. It shares much of the long route’s stunning scenery and smooth gravel but offers a shorter option after the feed station. Recommended for intermediate riders, 38-45mm tyres are a solid choice.
Classic Route
A scenic 38km loop with 735m of elevation, perfect for those seeking a taste of Gravel Riding. With manageable climbs and close proximity to the event village, this is a great introductory gravel experience. Tyres in the 35-40mm range should suffice.
Included in entry
Fully Signed Route
We are proud of our excellent signage. Leaving you able to relax and enjoy the ride.
Food Stations
Epic rides need proper fuel! We pride ourselves on feeding you with local sourced delicious grub - check our reviews..... the food is top notch!
GPX Files Ahead of Time
In the lead up to the ride, we’ll send you the GPX files for all the route options, so you can load them onto your GPS and follow along with the signs.
On-Site Mechanics
Got a mechanical? Our mechanics are on hand at the rider village and key feed stations, with spare tubes, CO2, and more to keep you rolling
Support Vans When You Need Them
If you run into trouble, our support vans are just a call away to get you back on track
Relax at the Finish
You’ve earned it! Grab a beer and some food from the barbie at the finish line and swap stories with fellow riders around the firepit
Event Program
Pre-Ride Prep
- GPX files and a detailed pre-ride briefing will be sent to all riders by email. Ensure your bike is ready, and plan your route choice.
21st June :
Ride Village Opens – 7:45 AM
- Location: Hawes.
- Check in and collect your ride number (approx. 10 minutes).
Ride Start – 8:00 AM to 8:45 AM
- Riders will set off in small groups after a short ride briefing.
Beers & Firepit Fun – From 3:00 PM
- Celebrate your ride with cold beers, snacks, and camaraderie around the firepit at the finish.
Ride Village Closes – 6:00 PM
- Wind down after your epic day before the village wraps up.
Ride Times & Photos – 7:00 PM
- Check your inbox for a link to your official ride times and photos from the day.
We can’t wait to see you in the dales for an unforgettable gravel adventure!
The Epic Route
An absolute classic Yorkshire Dales gravel route! Starting in Hawes, the ride takes you through the charming town, over the river, and straight into a challenging climb to Gunnerside. From there, enjoy smooth gravel along the Swale Trail, pass the historic Castle Bolton, and ride towards Bainbridge on an ancient Roman road.
The long route ventures further west into the dramatic landscapes of Ingleton and Garsdale, tracing parts of the iconic Pennine Way and Dales Divide trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter one of Wild Gravel’s famous feed stations, guaranteed to surprise and delight with local treats to fuel your adventure.
This route promises a true Yorkshire Dales experience with challenging climbs, stunning descents, and breathtaking scenery throughout.
Distance: 93K
Elevation:1700m
Gravel: 67% Road: 33%
The Adventure Route
A stunning Yorkshire Dales gravel experience, offering all the highlights of the long route with a slightly shorter distance and less elevation. Starting in Hawes, the ride takes you through the picturesque town, crossing the river to tackle the climb to Gunnerside. Enjoy the smooth gravel of the Swale Trail, pass the historic Castle Bolton, and ride towards Bainbridge along a scenic Roman road.
Unlike the Epic route, the adventure route skips the Ingleton and Garsdale sections, focusing instead on the heart of the dales. Riders will still experience the thrill of Wild Gravel’s legendary feed station, serving up local surprises to keep you energized for the journey.
This route strikes a perfect balance of challenge and accessibility, showcasing the very best of the Yorkshire Dales.
The Classic Route
The Classic route gives riders a chance to sample all the expected delights of a route around the Dales, without having to commit to a huge distance. You can take your time on the climbs and stop for those stunning photos. The loop stays closest to the Event village, so riders can feel secure in the knowledge than any support is not too far away. This route offers riders a manageable distance while still showcasing the beauty of the Dales and a truly awesome gravel experience
Distance: 35K
Elevation: 700m
Gravel: 67% Road: 33%
FAQS
WHERE DOES THE RIDE START & FINISH
The ride starts and finishes in the village of Hawes
Are there any age restrictions for participating in the event ?
Yes, Participants must be at least 18 years old to take part in Ride the Wild.
What is the difficulty level of the different route options ?
The Epic route is the most challenging. Covering significant distances and including demanding climbs. The Adventure route offers a slightly shorter option but still presents a good level of challenge. The Classic route provides a more manageable distance, suitable for riders seeking a less strenuous ride.
Our packing list
Bike Selection and Kit List:
Bike Selection Packing ust for the Wild Gravel :
- Bike Choice: We recommend a gravel bike or mountain bike. E-bikes are also allowed.
Tyre choice: Opt for 35 to 40mm fast-rolling as the gravel on the route is excellent. - Packing List: Bring self-sufficiency equipment: inner tubes, sealant, a multi-tool, and a pump.
- Clothing: Be prepared for changing weather with layers, including arm and knee warmers, a lightweight jacket and a MANDATORY HELMET.
These essentials will ensure you’re well-equipped for the Wild Gravel ready to tackle the stunning Yorkshire Dales with confidence.