3.8
(3)
103
riders
4
rides
Mountain biking around Benholm And Johnshaven offers diverse landscapes across Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The region features a mix of terrains, including rolling hills and dense woodlands, providing varied challenges for mountain bikers. Prominent features like Strathfinella Hill, Paldyfair Woods, and Drumtochty Forest define the area's natural environment. These landscapes offer elevation changes and technical sections suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
3.0
(1)
2
riders
36.0km
03:36
870m
870m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
37
riders
40.1km
03:47
900m
900m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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32
riders
24.6km
02:20
560m
560m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
11.6km
01:02
220m
220m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
4
riders
41.5km
03:43
830m
830m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A great local bothy and the most eastern in the Cairngorms (ish) region. Part of the MBA network of bothies. if planning to stay then dont forget to check https://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/volunteer/work-party-information/ for work party dates.
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Local Shop in AUCHENBLAE provides a great option for food if the cafe is shut. Friendly welcoming place with coffee machine ☕
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Lovely quiet road that passes through Paldyfair Wood
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If you continue 1km further wast on the road you will reach the gothic style Episcopal church which is part of the Drumtochty estate grounds.
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If you plan on heading North over the Cairn o Mount and further inland this is the last refuse stop for supplies for a while with some exposed and very steep paved terrain and even more ascent off road. If heading South from the Cairn O Mount descent the Clattering Brig is the last supply stop before Laurencekirk with railway access, and Fettercairn.
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Small bothy in Glen Dye, which makes for an OK refuge for the night especially in bad weather. No fire or stove. Link to the bothy site: https://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/bothies/eastern-highlands/charr/
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One of the more interesting Marilyns of the area, you might need a GPS to help find the trig point in amongst the rows of trees planted here.
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Small bothy in Glen Dye. OK refuge for the night especially in bad weather. No fire or stove. Link to the Bothy site : https://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/bothies/eastern-highlands/charr/
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The Benholm And Johnshaven area offers a diverse mix of terrains, including rolling hills and dense woodlands. You'll find trails with significant elevation changes, such as those around Strathfinella Hill, and scenic rides through Paldyfair Woods and Drumtochty Forest. This variety provides challenges for different fitness and skill levels, from gentle paths to more technical sections.
Yes, there are trails suitable for beginners and families. For example, the Premier News – Saint Palladius Church loop from Auchenblae is an easy route, covering about 11.6 km with moderate elevation gain, making it a good option for those new to mountain biking or riding with family.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Benholm And Johnshaven are designed as loops. For instance, the popular Strathinella Hill, Paldyfair Woods and Drumtochty Forest loop and the Saint Palladius Church – Saint Palladius Church loop from Auchenblae are both circular routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.
While mountain biking, you can explore areas close to several natural attractions. Notable features include the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, known for its sand banks and dunes, and the scenic St Cyrus Beach. You might also encounter natural monuments like Woodston Burn Waterfall and Rocks or Den Finella Waterfall, offering picturesque stops along your ride.
Yes, the area features trails with notable elevation gains, especially around prominent features like Strathfinella Hill. Routes can range from those with around 200 meters of ascent, suitable for easier rides, to more challenging ones with over 800 meters of climbing, such as the Strathfinella Hill – Strathfinella Hill Trig Point loop from Laurencekirk, which offers expansive views from its higher points.
The mountain bike trails in Benholm And Johnshaven are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Riders often appreciate the diverse landscapes, including rolling hills and dense woodlands, and the varied challenges offered by the terrain. The presence of established routes like the Strathfinella Hill loops also contributes to a positive riding experience.
Aberdeenshire's climate means that spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking, with longer daylight hours and drier trails. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. However, conditions can vary, so it's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially during wetter or colder months.
Yes, trails that ascend Strathfinella Hill often provide expansive views of the surrounding Aberdeenshire landscape. The Strathfinella Hill – Strathfinella Hill Trig Point loop from Laurencekirk, for example, explores the slopes and summit area of Strathfinella Hill, offering panoramic vistas. Additionally, coastal proximity means some areas may offer glimpses of the sea, such as near Johnshaven Harbour.
The duration of mountain bike routes in Benholm And Johnshaven varies depending on the trail length and your pace. Shorter, easier routes like the Premier News – Saint Palladius Church loop from Auchenblae can be completed in just over an hour, while longer, moderate trails such as the Mid Hill Wind Farm Plateau – Charr Bothy loop from Auchenblae might take around 3 hours 45 minutes to complete.
There are at least 5 distinct mountain bike trails available around Benholm And Johnshaven, catering to various skill levels from easy to moderate. These routes allow riders to explore the diverse landscapes of Aberdeenshire.
The mountain bike trails around Benholm And Johnshaven primarily cater to easy and moderate ability levels. You'll find 2 easy routes and 3 moderate routes, offering a good range for riders looking for enjoyable rides without extreme technical challenges. Some trails may feature technical singletrack in wooded areas, but generally, they are accessible to a wide range of riders.


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