The best MTB trails around Inverness

There are over 30 mountain bike trails available around Inverness, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging routes to explore.

Mountain biking around Inverness offers diverse terrain, from the shores of Loch Ness to the extensive Great Glen. You can expect a mix of lochs, rolling hills, and forests, with routes along the Caledonian Canal and through community woodlands. The region provides everything from gentle paths to more challenging forest routes.

Yes, Inverness offers several family-friendly options. The Big Dry Creek Trail is an easy 4.6-mile route that takes about 35 minutes, suitable for a straightforward ride. Another easy option is the Smoky Hill Trail, a 3.9-mile path providing a relatively flat experience. Abriachan Community Forest, just outside Inverness, also features trails revamped in 2023, including a flowing 5km blue route and a dirt pumptrack, catering to families and those looking for skill progression.

For those seeking a longer ride, the East/West Regional Trail – Highlands Point Viewpoint loop from County Line is a moderate 28.2-mile trail, typically completed in under four hours. If you're looking for a significant challenge, the View from Chatfield Dam – Strontia Springs Dam loop from County Line is a difficult 54.7-mile route that can take over six hours to complete.

The mountain bike trails in Inverness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 9 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from loch-side paths to forest routes, and the variety of options available for different skill levels.

Yes, the region is known for circular routes. A notable example is the Loch Ness 360° Trail, an extensive 80-mile (129.5 km) circular route that encircles Loch Ness, offering varied riding experiences. While this is a multi-day challenge, sections of it can be ridden as day trips. For a shorter loop, consider the Village Greens South Park Pond loop from Greenwood Village, an easy 3-mile ride.

The trails around Inverness offer access to stunning natural features. You can ride along the shores of Loch Ness, explore the Great Glen, and cycle through various forests and woodlands. Specific highlights include the Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve, Cherry Creek Reservoir, and Rueter-Hess Reservoir. The Caledonian Canal and River Ness also provide scenic waterside paths.

Yes, there are dedicated facilities. Abriachan Community Forest, located just outside Inverness, features revamped trails with a flowing blue route, a red option, and a jumpline, along with a dirt pumptrack. Learnie Redrocks, on the Black Isle, also provides trails for a range of riders, from beginners to advanced, with gentle climbs and fun descents, plus a picnic area.

Inverness itself is well-connected by public transport, and its strategic location at the northern end of the Great Glen means many routes are accessible. The Caledonian Canal and River Ness paths, which are often less strenuous, run through or very close to the city center, making them easily reachable. For trails further afield, local bus services might connect to trailheads, but it's advisable to check specific routes and schedules for bike carriage options.

The best time for mountain biking in Inverness is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and trail conditions are more favorable. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Be prepared for changeable weather, as is common in the Scottish Highlands, and always check local forecasts.

Many trails in the Inverness area offer stunning views, particularly those around Loch Ness and in the higher elevations of the Highlands. Abriachan Community Forest trails provide great views of Loch Ness. The East/West Regional Trail – Highlands Point Viewpoint loop from County Line explicitly mentions a viewpoint, suggesting scenic rewards. The diverse landscapes of lochs, rolling hills, and forests ensure picturesque backdrops for your ride.