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CyclingNew Forest Cycling - Cycling Routes And Bike Hire In The New Forest Of all of the leisure activities that can be found in the New Forest cycling is one of the most popular. This is because new Forest cycling routes can be found that are both easy and acceptable for families with small children, and other cycling routes in the forest can be found that are more difficult and challenging, and are therefore only for the experienced cyclist. This gives the forest the ideal balance for cyclist of all levels, so no matter what your expectations are for your cycling experience, you will certainly find a trail that is perfect for you. New Forest cycling has always been popular, but has become even more so in recent years. This includes cycling that takes place on both on and off road, but off road cycling has become the most common of late. Due to the increase in popularity, the Forest Commission has needed to create a number of official Cycle Routes. These cycle routes are balanced in difficulty to give bike riders of all levels a good experience and to help to preserve the forest and protect it as well. The official New Forest cycling routes are way-marked. These routes add up to more than one hundred miles in which you can enjoy all that the forest has to offer to you. The area of the national park is mostly low lying land making riding here quite pleasant, although there are a few trails that have gradients to tackle. There are also pubs and other things located close to trails, which mean that you can enjoy your day of cycling to the fullest potential. Many people choose to bike in the national park because this is one of the most beautiful ways to see the forest as well as the animals that live within the its boundaries. The way-marked routes take you through excellent views, and also between popular villages, and other places of interest that you can enjoy. You will be cycling through ancient and beautiful woodlands, and across open heath land. You'll be a witness to beautiful views and breathtaking atmospheres, as well as be able to enjoy the atmosphere within the forest and the wildlife you'll get to see as well and you will feel much more relaxed and close to nature. When you are cycling within the parks boundaries, it is important to follow the Forest's Cycle Code, which has been put in place to guide cyclists in the area, and is for the benefit of everyone , both man, beast and the natural habitat. First of all, it is important to stick to either roads or the off road way-marked cycling paths while in the park. There is a maximum penalty of 500 pounds for cycling off way marked paths, due to the damage done to the ground by off road mountain bikes. Secondly, you should slow down and call a warning when you are approaching other forest users. Thirdly, you should take extra care when you are cycling near horses, and be sure to pass the horses on the same side as not to startle them. Fourthly, you should not startle ponies or other wildlife that you might find within the forest, startled New Forest ponies can be naturally aggressive in response. Fifth, be sure to avoid causing any obstructions. Don't ride all together on narrow roads and be courteous to the needs of other road and bike trail users. Sixth, if you see work going on in the forest, keep away from it. This will avoid accidents as machinery operators may not be aware of your presence. The seventh rule is you should not pass any vehicle that is loading timber until you have had permission to do so. And lastly, you should take a map with you, and plan to be off of the cycle paths by dusk. Following the New Forest cycling code while cycling in the area generally requires you to just be smart and cautious. If you are visiting the area and would like to try some of the cycle routes, but have not come prepared this is not a problem. There are a number of bike hire facilities at convenient locations around the park so there is no reason why you need to go home without having enjoyed the New Forest Cycling experience. If you found this page useful please bookmark it for others to share - Thank you 
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