The best MTB trails in Angus

Angus offers a diverse range of mountain bike trails, from cross-country and singletrack to more challenging downhill options. You'll find routes winding through wild glens, ancient woodlands, and along rugged coastlines. The region caters to all abilities, with trails featuring technical elements like jumps, berms, drops, and rock gardens for experienced riders, as well as smoother paths for beginners.

Yes, Angus has trails suitable for beginners. Out of the 73 mountain bike routes available, 15 are rated as easy. For example, areas like Monikie and Crombie Country Parks offer structured trails that are generally less technical. The Forfar Mountain Bike Club's facility near Forfar Loch Country Park also provides a safe environment to enhance riding skills.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Angus offers several difficult routes. There are 12 difficult trails in the region. A notable example is From Auchterhouse to Keillor Hill and Long Loch loop, which is 37.4 miles (60.1 km) long and features significant elevation gain and varied terrain. The glens, particularly around Kirriemuir and Glen Doll, also provide challenging routes like Jocks Road.

The ideal seasons for mountain biking in Angus are spring, summer, and autumn. During these months, the countryside is vibrant, and weather conditions are generally more favorable, making trails more accessible and enjoyable. While winter riding is possible, unpredictable weather can affect trail conditions and accessibility.

Yes, Angus offers family-friendly options. Country parks such as Monikie, Crombie, and Forfar Loch Country Park provide diverse landscapes with woodland and parkland trails that are generally suitable for families. These locations often have amenities and less technical terrain, making them great for a day out with children.

Many trails in Angus are suitable for dogs, especially those in open countryside and woodlands. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, particularly in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations if available. Always carry water for your dog and be mindful of other trail users.

Angus's mountain bike trails often pass by stunning natural features and historical sites. You can encounter beautiful lochs like Loch Lee or Loch of Lintrathen. The region also features historical sites such as Invermark Castle Ruins and Edzell Castle and Gardens, offering interesting stops during your ride.

Yes, many mountain bike routes in Angus are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include From Blackwater Reservoir to Prosen Village and Turf hill loop, From East Haven to St Vigeans Ancient Village loop, and Airlie Monument loop from Crossbog Pinewood.

The mountain bike trails in Angus are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, which offer everything from wild glens and ancient woodlands to rugged coastlines. The variety of trails, catering to different skill levels, is also a common highlight.

While some larger towns in Angus are served by public transport, direct access to many of the more remote mountain biking trailheads, especially within the glens or Cairngorms National Park, can be limited. Planning your route and checking local bus services in advance is advisable, but a car is often recommended for greater flexibility.

Yes, Angus is home to the Forfar Mountain Bike Club, which operates a purpose-built facility near Forfar Loch Country Park. This facility includes features like jumps, berms, and drops, designed to help riders safely improve their technical skills. Additionally, popular areas like Glen Clova and Kirriemuir are well-known for their extensive trail networks.

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and visitor centers throughout Angus, especially in areas like Glen Clova, Kirriemuir, and near country parks such as Monikie and Crombie. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages on komoot or local tourism websites. Always ensure you park responsibly and respect local regulations.