Bike riders on Cam High Road, in the Yorkshire DalesMotorbikers on Dales trails are getting guidance on where they can and can’t ride.

Authorities have produced a leaflet setting out routes and rules for using the national park’s off-road tracks. The aim is to lessen conflict between motorised two-wheelers and other users and residents.

Bike riders on Cam High Road, in the Yorkshire Dales 


The Trail Riders’ Fellowship has teamed up with the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority to put together the guide which, in addition to setting out the law, gives advice to bikers on minimising environmental damage and disturbance of the peace.

Authority spokesman Matt Neale said: “The recreational use of motorbikes and other vehicles on certain routes within the national park is a very controversial issue that stirs up feelings on all sides.

“The aim of this leaflet is to set out in clear terms exactly where and how trail bikers can use the byways and unsurfaced unclassified county roads in the national park. It explains the legal issues involved and the ways in which riders can help minimise the effects of their sport on the wildlife, the landscape and other users.”

Information on routes which can be used by trial bikers is on the authority’s website green lane management page.

PC Harry Carpenter of North Yorkshire Police, said: “The police and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority work very closely to ensure that recreational users of off-road vehicles – motorcycles or 4×4s – are aware of the law and their responsibilities. However we will take action where a clear breach of the law is committed.”

In August this year, a rider was fined £250 with £45 costs at Skipton Magistrates Court after admitting illegally using his bike on a bridleway at Force Gill, near Ribblehead, a known problem spot.

Natural England, North Yorkshire and Cumbria county councils, Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Beauty and North Yorkshire and Cumbria police have all co-operated in producing the leaflet which, as well as being available at filling stations and cafés in the Yorkshire Dales, can be downloaded from the authority’s website.