The best MTB trails around Glencorse Reservoir

The Glencorse Reservoir area, nestled within the Pentland Hills, offers a diverse range of mountain bike trails. You'll find everything from smooth paths suitable for leisurely rides to more technical sections that challenge experienced riders. The routes often feature rolling hills, open moorland, forested sections, and scenic reservoir-side paths.

Yes, there are plenty of options for beginners and families. Out of over 100 routes in the area, about 30 are rated as easy. An excellent choice for an easier ride is the Flotterstone Car Park loop from Easter Howgate, which is 10.2 miles (16.4 km) and leads through the lower slopes of the Pentland Hills. Another easy option is the Glencorse Waterfall – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Kirkhill, offering scenic views.

While the majority of trails are moderate, there are 6 routes rated as difficult for those seeking a greater challenge. For a moderate but rewarding ride with expansive views, consider the Green Cleugh Valley – Pentland Hills Access Road loop from Easter Howgate, which covers 19.6 miles (31.5 km) and includes significant elevation gain.

Trail durations vary significantly based on length and difficulty. For example, an easy route like the Glencorse Waterfall – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Kirkhill can be completed in under an hour (around 59 minutes). A moderate route such as the Glencorse Reservoir – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Easter Howgate typically takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, while longer, more challenging routes can take over 2 hours.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Glencorse Reservoir are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the Glencorse Reservoir – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Easter Howgate, which circles the reservoir itself, offering continuous waterside scenery.

The trails offer stunning views of the Glencorse Reservoir and the surrounding Pentland Hills. You'll ride through open moorland, past forested sections, and along valleys shaped by glacial activity. Many routes provide expansive vistas across the rolling hills, especially from higher points.

The mountain bike trails around Glencorse Reservoir are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 90 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful reservoir-side scenery, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.

Yes, parking is available at various access points around the reservoir and in the wider Pentland Hills area. A common starting point with parking is Flotterstone Car Park, which is the beginning of the Flotterstone Car Park loop from Easter Howgate.

The Pentland Hills Regional Park, which encompasses Glencorse Reservoir, has some facilities. The Flotterstone Inn, located near Flotterstone Car Park, offers refreshments and food, making it a convenient stop before or after your ride.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking, with cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially on higher ground, and shorter daylight hours.

The Pentland Hills are home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds of prey, deer, and other local fauna, especially in the quieter moorland and forested sections of the trails. The reservoir itself attracts various waterfowl.

Yes, the area is rich in history and natural beauty. You might encounter historical remnants from the reservoir's construction or old military roads. The Stone Tunnel – Roslin Glen Railway Tunnel loop from Penicuik offers a unique historical feature, while the Glencorse Waterfall is a notable natural attraction, accessible via routes like the Glencorse Waterfall – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Kirkhill.