The best road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest
4.6
(64)
2,616
riders
236
rides
Road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest feature a network of paths and forest roads, with some sections offering mostly paved surfaces suitable for road bikes. The area includes fire break roads and wider tracks that provide varied cycling experiences. The landscape is characterized by working forest environments, with landmarks such as Tappie Tower atop Tyrebagger Hill offering elevated views. These routes often traverse diverse forest scenery and connect to wider trail networks.
Best road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest
- The…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
5.0
(3)
18
riders
40.7km
01:54
460m
460m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
15.9km
00:45
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5.0
(1)
25
riders
65.9km
03:03
700m
700m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
21
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
17
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
This place closes on the 12th of October for the winter and will reopen in the spring (April). Run by a very nice lady.
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perfect for beginners like myself and wife, we would have gone further if we had more time👌
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Open Wednesday to Sunday, the Coffee Spot is at the entrance to the Fetternear estate and serves coffee, cold drinks and delicious and authentic Chinese street food - well worth a stop!
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One of Aberdeenshire's iconic climbs. Steep but short!
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The Formartine and Buchan cycle and walking trail crosses the River Don here. You can see a gauging station just upstream, past the power lines.
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Here you’ll pass over the River Don, a tranquil waterway which originates in the Grampian Mountains, specifically in the Peatlands of Aberdeenshire. It flows eastward through Aberdeenshire, passing through various towns and eventually empties into the North Sea at Aberdeen.
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Inverurie Town Hall is a centre point building in Inverurie. It has various meeting rooms and event spaces for hire. Every second Saturday of the month the farmers market is held in the square in front of the town hall.
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In the same field as the Castle Fraser Recumbent Circle is a pair of standing stones. Aligned NE-SW they are not thought to be the remains of a second circle but rather a simple stone row. The taller NE stone is triangular and some 6 feet 6 inches tall. The SW stone is just under six feet tall and is more cuboid. - https://www.megalithic.co.uk/article.php?sid=12658 - https://www.ancient-scotland.co.uk/site/castle-frazer-stone-row
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Kirkhill Forest?
There are over 240 road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Kirkhill Forest?
The road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest feature a mix of surfaces. While some sections are mostly paved, you can also expect to encounter fire break roads and wider gravel tracks. This varied terrain provides a diverse cycling experience, suitable for road bikes with wider tires or gravel bikes.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Kirkhill Forest offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners and families. Approximately 75 of the routes are rated as easy, providing gentler gradients and manageable distances for a pleasant cycling experience. An example of an easy route is the Bogriffie Wood loop from Blackburn.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Kirkhill Forest?
The road cycling routes in Kirkhill Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, picturesque forest environment, and the options available for different ability levels.
Are there any notable landmarks or viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
Yes, several routes offer views of significant landmarks. The View of Pitfichie Hill – Forest Farm Organic Farm Shop loop from Blackburn provides views towards Pitfichie Hill. Additionally, the wider Kirkhill Forest area is home to Tappie Tower atop Tyrebagger Hill, a 19th-century folly offering panoramic views across Aberdeenshire, though routes directly to it might involve more off-road sections.
Is parking available for road cyclists at Kirkhill Forest?
While specific parking areas for road cyclists are not detailed for every route, Kirkhill Forest is a popular outdoor destination, and parking facilities are generally available at key access points. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for the nearest parking options.
Can I access Kirkhill Forest by public transport for cycling?
Kirkhill Forest is accessible from nearby towns and cities. Public transport options, including bus routes, connect to areas around Kirkhill Forest and Aberdeen International Airport, which is a starting point for some routes like the Forest Farm Organic Farm Shop loop from Aberdeen International Airport. Checking local bus schedules is recommended for planning your journey.
Are there circular road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Smithy Wood loop from Hatton of Fintray and the Forest Farm Organic Farm Shop – View of Loch of Skene loop from Blackburn.
Are there cafes or pubs near the road cycling routes?
Yes, some routes pass by or are near local amenities. For instance, the View of Pitfichie Hill – Forest Farm Organic Farm Shop loop from Blackburn and the Forest Farm Organic Farm Shop loop from Aberdeen International Airport both pass a local organic farm shop, which can be a good stop for refreshments. You can also find cafes and pubs in nearby villages like Blackburn and Hatton of Fintray.
What is the typical difficulty level of road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest?
The majority of road cycling routes around Kirkhill Forest are rated as moderate, making them suitable for cyclists with some experience. There are also numerous easy routes for a more relaxed ride, and a few more challenging options for those seeking a greater test. Overall, the network caters to a wide range of abilities.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Kirkhill Forest?
The best time for road cycling in Kirkhill Forest is generally during the drier months, from spring through autumn, when paths are less likely to be muddy and weather conditions are more favorable. While some routes include paved sections, the presence of gravel and forest roads means conditions can vary with rainfall. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Most popular routes around Kirkhill Forest
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