Mountain Biking in Scotland

First : Ride responsibly!

In Scotland, we have access to far more land than in England and Wales. But these rights come with strict responsibilities, laid out in the Outdoor Access Code. That means respecting other trail users, avoiding damage and wildlife disturbance, not dropping litter, etc. As long as we follow these basic guidelines, we keep the right to ride some great trails.

Top mountain biking areas in Scotland

There are so many places to ride! In the Scottish Highlands, the Cairngorms National Park, Glen Affric, Torridon, Lochaber, Inverness and Golspie are all key mountain biking areas. In Aberdeenshire and Moray there are a number of excellent wee venues. The 7 Stanes in the Southern Scotland has a great reputation and Dunkeld in Perthshire is the setting for an awesome Enduro event. Then, of course, there’s the islands too! These are the main regions, but there are plenty of other corners with great routes.

Rideable Munros

A highlight of MTB riding in the Scottish Highlands is bagging a ‘Munro’ by bike. The 900 meter-plus summits that are rideable offer a mega challenge and a big sense of achievement. Detailed knowledge and experience of the route is handy, as mountain conditions can change very quickly. Technical riding in these very remote areas requires a different approach to shredding your local bikepark, but the views and buzz are often second to none.

Cycle path and bike park options

Highland riding isn’t all gnarly, wet trails. You can also find cycle paths and tracks in both rural and urban areas, which also provide a safer alternative to riding on main roads. Also, there’s a range of bike parks, pump tracks and trail centres which offer a different style of riding to the more unpredictable natural trails. Many have excellent hire fleets, either on-site or nearby, and some bikeparks provide uplift as well.

Exploring Scotland by MTB

Cycling is a great (and sustainable) way to discover wildlife, landscape and history. There are loads of options, from the wee Cougie Loop in Glen Affric, to several long distance routes. However, the 348-mile-long An Turus Mor MTB trail is designed around the concept of a long distance, non-technical MTB route. Then there’s all the islands too, each with various options for off-road cycling.

Changeable weather can be a big challenge for mountain bikers in Scotland – and not just in the Highlands. So wear thin layers that you can add or remove depending on your temperature and the weather conditions. MTB trousers and long sleeves are recommended for alot of riding. Although a bit warmer, these offer some protection and keep the midges off, too! Check out What to wear for mountain biking.

Crash protection is a must. Kneepads and gloves are a great idea on faster trails. Obviously, a helmet is essential. However, aggressive trail riders on modern enduro bikes are increasingly wearing full face helmets. Convertible helmets are good for this – check out my review of one, the Bell Super DH.

Scottish trail riding can be rough on kit. Watch out for tough vegetation, sharp rocks and epic bogs! Although Scottish heather can be very pretty to look at, it doesn’t look so good wrapped around a bent rear mech. So, take enough food and fluids, be wary of ‘travelling light’, and think carefully about spares and tools.

Steep, muddy and rooty singletrack has led to many expensive crashes. And a ripped sidewall, broken dropper post or severed brake hose can mean choosing between a desperate ride back to the trailhead, or a long walk in the dark. Good bike setup helps a lot, but your MTB kit list should also include items to carry out basic trailside repairs.

Check out Arc Guiding’s outdoor gear reviews to help you find the best kit.

Scottish MTB singletrack

Scottish mountain biking is famous for its natural trails. These trail networks are supported by landowners and trail associations, with regular ‘dig days’ through the season. Built over years by local riders, hand-cut singletrack offers awesome riding in beautiful places. However, these routes can be tricky to find, or take some effort to get to. Phone apps and bike-mounted GPS will help you find the main trails, but some routes are either not published or not obvious!

Skills for mountain biking in Scotland

It’s smart to ride within your abilities. But building your MTB skills will also help you cope with a wider range of trails and weather.

Predicting Scotland’s weather is very tricky – especially in the Highlands. Get it right and you’ll have a dream ride. Get it wrong and you can face a suffer-fest on wheels. So check the forecast, take suitable gear and have an alternative plan.

Biking in Scotland leads you into remote places. Remember that long emergency response times, lack of shelter and bad phone signal could all turn a simple crash into an epic. So, look after your gadgets and have a backup plan!