Mountain Biking in West and North West Scotland: A Comprehensive Cycling Guide

Scotland is a mountain biker's paradise, with endless miles of stunning trails to explore. The West and North West of Scotland are particularly renowned for their rugged beauty and challenging terrain, making them a must-visit for any mountain biker. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your next mountain biking adventure in this breathtaking part of the world.

Mountain Biking in West and North West Scotland (Cycling Guides)

by Paul Brown

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	38848 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	343 pages
Paperback	:	112 pages
Item Weight	:	7.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.26 x 9 inches

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Beginner-Friendly Trails

• The Loch Lomond Loop (Argyll and Bute): This 25-mile loop around Loch Lomond is a great to mountain biking in Scotland. The trail is mostly flat and easy to ride, with stunning views of the loch and the surrounding mountains.
• The Great Glen Way (Inverness-shire): This 73-mile trail follows the Caledonian Canal along the Great Glen, a geological fault line that runs through the Scottish Highlands. The trail is mostly off-road and relatively flat, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
• The West Highland Way (Argyll and Bute, Perthshire, and Inverness-shire): This 96-mile trail is one of the most popular long-distance hiking trails in Scotland. It can also be ridden on a mountain bike, and while it is more challenging than the previous trails, it is still manageable for beginner and intermediate riders.

Intermediate Trails

• The Laggan Wolftrax (Inverness-shire): This trail center offers a variety of trails for all abilities, from beginner to expert. The intermediate trails are challenging but rewarding, with steep climbs, technical descents, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• The Nevis Range (Inverness-shire): This mountain resort offers a network of trails that cater to all levels of riders. The intermediate trails are particularly popular, with a good mix of technical challenges and flowy sections.
• The Glencoe Mountain Resort (Argyll and Bute): This resort is home to some of the most iconic mountain biking trails in Scotland. The intermediate trails are challenging but accessible, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.

Advanced Trails

• The Black Mount (Argyll and Bute): This remote mountain range is home to some of the most challenging mountain biking trails in Scotland. The trails are steep, technical, and often exposed, so they are only suitable for experienced riders.
• The Cuillin Hills (Isle of Skye): These jagged peaks offer some of the most extreme mountain biking in Scotland. The trails are steep, rocky, and often exposed, and they are not for the faint of heart.
• The Torridon Hills (Ross-shire): These rugged hills are home to some of the most challenging and rewarding mountain biking trails in Scotland. The trails are steep, technical, and often exposed, but they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.

Maps and Ride Descriptions

There are a number of resources available to help you plan your mountain biking adventure in West and North West Scotland. The following websites provide detailed maps and ride descriptions for all of the trails mentioned in this guide:

• MTB Scotland
• Trailforks
• Singletracks

Local Tips

• The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all conditions.
• The midges (small flying insects) can be a nuisance in Scotland, especially during the summer months. Bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself.
• Be aware of your surroundings and stay on the designated trails. There are a lot of sheep and other animals in the Scottish Highlands, so be respectful of their environment.
• Be sure to have a map and compass or GPS device, as it is easy to get lost in the vast wilderness of the Scottish Highlands.
• Let someone know your plans before you go, and be sure to check in with them when you return.

Mountain biking in West and North West Scotland is an unforgettable experience. With its stunning scenery, challenging trails, and welcoming locals, it is a must-visit for any mountain biker. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there is a trail out there for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next mountain biking adventure in Scotland today!

Mountain Biking in West and North West Scotland (Cycling Guides)

by Paul Brown

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	38848 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	343 pages
Paperback	:	112 pages
Item Weight	:	7.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.26 x 9 inches

FREE