Mountain Bike Permits
All organisations wishing to lead mountain biking i.e. coaching or guiding either on a commercial or non-commercial basis on Northern Ireland’s mountain bike trail centres must apply for an ‘Annual Mountain Biking Permit.’
Castlewellan & Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails
The permit for the Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails and/or Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails is issued by the respective local council and administered by the Mourne Mountain Bike Ranger employed by Mourne Heritage Trust. Follow this link to download the Permit Application Form for both the mountain bike trail centres in the Mournes.
Davagh Forest Trails
Cookstown District Council also operate a permit system for the Davagh Forest Trails. Please contact Anne Reid from Mid Ulster District Council on Anne.Reid@midulstercouncil.org for more information.
Barnett Demesne Trails
The permit for Barnett Demesne Trails is issued and administered by Belfast City Council. Follow this link for Permit Application Form.
Permit Holders on MountainBikeNI.com
In agreement with each trail managing council, MountainBikeNI will only promote official permit holders and council appointed official trail head providers.
Responsible Biking
While the managers of Northern Ireland’s official mountain bike trails have a responsibility to keep them well maintained, ultimately you as a rider are responsible for looking after yourself as you have accepted the risks associated with these trails. All mountain bikers should also be responsible towards other users of the forest and the surrounding environment.
Below are some ways in which you can be a responsible mountain biker!
- Make the Most of Official Mountain Bike Trails: These trails have been specifically developed to facilitate high quality mountain biking experiences and are designed to minimise the impact on the natural environment by reducing erosion, avoiding rare species and blending into the landscape. They are built to a specific set of standards and help to avoid conflict with other forest users.
- Ride on Open Trails: Occasionally sections of trails may need to be closed for essential repair work or because of damage – please respect these closures and if you are unsure about the status of a trail ask a land manage
- Follow signage and information: Most trails have a one way system employed to control the risks of collisions and also to manage conflict with other users. It is very important to follow these systems which are normally well signposted. When riding on dual direction trails – keep to the left.
- Look after your and using the right kit: Keeping your bike in good working order and regularly checking breaks, gears, wheels etc. is essential to safe riding. Always carry a puncture repair kit, a basic tool kit and a small first aid kit when riding trails – especially those that are in remote locations. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear including protective gloves.
- Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey any speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits. A number of accredited activity providers can provide skill development training and this is an excellent way to help you push your limits.
- Respect others: Do your best to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. When crossing other trails and forest roads be very cautious and courteous and you should yield to other trail users. Riders traveling downhill should yield to those going uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.
- Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the environment by staying on existing trails and not creating new ones or creating shortcuts by cutting switchbacks. Leave absolutely no litter behind you – even bio-degradable items.
- Be considerate to wildlife and livestock: Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. Give any animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses on dual trails, be very cautious and follow directions from the horse riders.
- Plan Ahead: Apply these principles when considering where you are going and what you are planning to do and strive to be self-sufficient and a responsible rider who earns a genuine welcome at all times to the trails.
BIOSECURITY
There are increasing threats to trees, plants and wildlife from disease and invasive species. Riders need to help prevent this by ensuring that you follow any specific information at a site regarding cleaning and/or disinfecting equipment.
In general it is important to brush any loose material off your wheels, footwear and bike and if possible wash down your bike before you leave the site. Before your next adventure clean your bike thoroughly.
Mountain Bike Event Applications
If you wish to host an event at any of the trail centres listed on MountainBikeNI please follow the relevant application process as outlined below. Please do not promote your event until permission has been issued by appropriate trail manager.
Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails
The application process for events on the Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails is managed by the Mourne Heritage Trust with event licences issued by Newry, Mourne & Down District Council. Please contact Barbara Fleming – Ovens from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council on Barbara.Fleming@nmandd.org or 028 4175 2256.
Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails
The application process for events on the Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails is managed by the Mourne Heritage Trust with event licences issued by Newry, Mourne & Down District Council. Please contact Barbara Fleming – Ovens from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council on Barbara.Fleming@nmandd.org or 028 4175 2256.
Davagh Forest Trails
To enquire about hosting an event at Davagh Forest Trails please contact John Howard from Mid-Ulster District Council at john.howard@midulstercouncil.org for more information.
Barnett Demesne – Belfast
The application process and licence issue for events at Barnett Demesne Trails is managed by Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland. For information please download the following forms
All applications must be submitted at least 8 weeks in advance. Please email info@mountainbikeni.com or call 028 9030 3930 for more information.
Blessingbourne Trails
To enquire about hosting an event at Blessingbourne Trails please contact Blessingbourne Estate by emailing info@blessingbourne.com for more information.
Tollymore Skills Course
To enquire about hosting an event at Tollymore Skills Course please contact Trevor Fisher from Tollymore National Outdoor Centre at trevor.fisher@tollymore.com for more information.