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MTB trails
United Kingdom
Scotland
Aberdeenshire

Methlick

The best MTB trails around Methlick

4.8

(3)

16

riders

6

rides

Mountain bike trails around Methlick are set within the rural Aberdeenshire landscape, characterized by the River Ythan and extensive woodlands. The area offers a network of trails, including singletrack, fire roads, and multi-user paths, suitable for various skill levels. Riders can expect elevation gains and descents, providing a dynamic experience across the region's natural features.

Best mountain bike trails around Methlick

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Deer Abbey – Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop loop from Ellon

Last updated: August 22, 2026

4.5

(2)

8

riders

#1.

Deer Abbey – Aden House Ruins loop from Ellon

54.7km

04:00

260m

260m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

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Popular around Methlick

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Tips from the Community

Apollymi
August 20, 2025, Trellis Café

Very good coffee and a fantastic selection of cakes! trelliscoffeeshop.com

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The visitor centre is open daily 10am - 4pm. The impressive dune system is always open. 😉

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The Formartine and Buchan railway line connects Dyce in Aberdeen to Fraserburgh and Peterhead. It's a popular path with cyclists, joggers, dog walkers, horse riders etc. Some sections are nice and wide, while others are more single track. There are a number of gates on the route, which are quite narrow. The path is slowly being improved in sections to facilitate better access.

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It's possible to visit the whole day. I was there in the evening and it was great

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haertera
June 12, 2024, Hackley Bay

A beautiful little sandy bay. The coastal path goes above it or you can descend into the bay.

Translated by Google

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Here you can find the ruins of the old church of Forvie. The village was buried by a shifting dune in the 16th century.

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Maud, formerly known as Brucklay is a quaint village that once served as a crucial junction for the Fraserburgh and Peterhead railway lines. The station, a lasting testament to its historical significance, now houses the Formartine & Buchan Railway Museum. Note that the museum operates seasonally during the summer, so it's advisable to check the opening times before planning your visit.

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Forvie National Nature Reserve is a treasure located north of Newburgh in Aberdeenshire, in the northeast of Scotland. Owned and managed by NatureScot, the reserve is one of Scotland’s most dramatic stretches of coast3. It covers almost 1,000 hectares of sand dunes and dune heath between the North Sea and the estuary of the River Ythan1. The Sands of Forvie, which are the fifth largest sand dune system in Britain, dominate the southern end of the reserve. These sands are the least disturbed by human activity in the country.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Methlick?

There are 8 mountain bike trails around Methlick listed on komoot, offering a range of experiences from easy to moderate difficulty.

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Methlick?

Yes, Methlick offers 3 easy mountain bike trails. One option is The Coffee Apothecary loop from Cairnfechel, which is just under 20 km long and has minimal elevation gain, making it a good choice for those new to mountain biking.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Methlick?

The mountain bike trails in Methlick traverse a diverse landscape, featuring singletrack, fire roads, and multi-user paths. Riders will encounter varied terrain through rural Aberdeenshire, often along the River Ythan and through dense woodlands like Waterside Wood and Craigie Wood.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Methlick?

Yes, many of the trails around Methlick are designed as loops. For example, the Deer Abbey – Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop loop from Ellon is a moderate 54.3 km circular route, and the Loch Hills Stone Arch Bridge – View of Hayhillock Countryside loop from Chapel Junction offers a 37.9 km circular ride through rural landscapes.

What historical landmarks or attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails?

The region around Methlick is rich in history. You can explore sites like the Gight Castle Ruins, which are accessible via scenic walks, or the Tolquhon Castle Ruins. The Hackley Bay – St Adamnan's Kirk Ruins loop from Ellon specifically passes by historical ruins, offering scenic views and a glimpse into the past.

Are the mountain bike trails in Methlick family-friendly?

While some trails are moderate, there are easy options suitable for families. The multi-user paths and fire roads provide a less technical riding experience. For a dedicated family-friendly option, consider the Formartine and Buchan Way, an old railway line converted into a multi-user path, which is excellent for cycling.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Methlick?

The mountain bike trails around Methlick are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the tranquil rural scenery, and the opportunity to explore the River Ythan and dense woodlands.

Is there parking available for mountain bikers in Methlick?

While specific designated mountain bike parking areas are not detailed, Methlick and surrounding areas typically offer parking options in villages or near trailheads. For routes like those starting from Ellon or Chapel Junction, local parking facilities would be the most convenient.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Methlick?

The best time for mountain biking in Methlick, like much of Aberdeenshire, is generally during the drier months from spring to early autumn (April to October). This avoids the wettest winter conditions and the peak midge season, offering more pleasant weather and better trail conditions.

Are there any cafes or places to eat near the mountain bike trails in Methlick?

Yes, Methlick village itself has amenities. Additionally, some routes are designed to pass by or start near cafes. For instance, The Coffee Apothecary loop from Cairnfechel suggests a route that includes a cafe, and the Deer Abbey – Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop loop from Ellon also indicates a cafe stop.

Can I reach the mountain bike trails in Methlick using public transport?

Methlick is a village in rural Aberdeenshire. While local bus services connect Methlick to larger towns like Ellon and Aberdeen, direct public transport access to specific trailheads might be limited. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules is recommended if relying on public transport.

Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails in Methlick?

Many trails in rural Aberdeenshire, including those around Methlick, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through farmland or near livestock, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Always check for specific signage on individual trails regarding dog policies.

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