Downhill MTB at Cannock Chase

Stile Cop is the only dedicated site for downhill riding on Cannock Chase. The site has been a breeding ground for local level downhill riding for over 10 years and more recently Chase Trails have stepped in to work with the Forestry Commission on dedicated trails.

The hill isn't huge, the peak is a modest 205m above sea level but it's fun spot for local riders or those passing through the area. The soil is free draining so it's a perfect winter alternative to other courses that suffer with the mud.

The hill is free to ride and open all year round, the only closures will be for maintenance or emergency reasons. These will normally be posted on our news page but there will always be somewhere to ride if we have work on.

Red Course

A smooth, wide, fast and flowing course. The original official course on the hill is aimed at intermediate riders with a series of drops and jumps all the way to the bottom. Either ride the main line or look out for one of the sign posted offshoots;

Chris' Line. First left option off the red course cleared by one of the hill's most prolific riders and original downhill builder this is an intermediate trail intended to give a fast and drifty feel. No major jumps but a few off camber loose bends to test your tyres and line choice.

Will's Line. Started in 2007 this is a serious option for skilled riders only. Take the second left off the red course and prepare for some of the biggest features in the area. Take the steady run down the hill to a an 18 foot long gap jump into a big kicker followed by a ballsy 15 foot gap / step down. A fun singletrack blast takes you over to the last section of Chris' line.

Ladder line. Right hand option after the big sweeping left hand berm. A small ladder drop takes you into a steep fall line chute, stay off the brakes to kick yourself around the small but fast right hand climbing berm. A pedally link up takes you to the bottom of the black course. Another ladder drop into new singletrack is under construction and is due to be launched before Spring '08

Black Course

Local racer input developed this trail a small scale training run. With a narrow singletrack line it take more rider skill to ride it best. A series of small jumps, drops and rock gardens take you down the hill. Some sticky of camber bits lead down to the biggest feature on the course, a 4-5 foot high, 10 + foot long jump into a rough, fast right hand berm.

The course steps the level up from the main red course but still sits at the intermediate level.

Dark Side

The unofficial playground for local riders is across the main fire road climb beside the red course.

This area is currently unsigned so you'll need to ask for directions or follow your nose to find the maze of trails and sections.

This area isn't suitable for novice riders and as with any downhill trails should be walked first to prepare you for what is to come.

All of the courses end at around the same point at the bottom of the hill, from here expect a walk of only around 10 minutes to get you back to the top of the hill.

All of the courses should be checked on foot before hitting them at speed. Full face helmets and body armour are strongly advised.