The best MTB trails around Colinton

The Colinton area, particularly within the Pentland Hills, offers a diverse range of mountain bike trails. You'll find paths traversing woodlands, open moorland, and routes connecting several reservoirs. The terrain includes rolling hills and valleys, providing options from accessible routes to more challenging climbs.

There are over 190 mountain bike trails around Colinton listed on komoot. This includes 58 easy routes, 121 moderate routes, and 12 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, there are several easy mountain bike trails. An excellent option is the Pentland Hills Access Road – Torduff Reservoir loop from Wester Hailes. This 14.3-mile (23.0 km) path offers scenic views of Torduff Reservoir and follows sections of the Pentland Hills Access Road, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Green Cleugh Valley – Pentland Hills Access Road loop from Wester Hailes is a difficult trail. It spans 31.8 miles (51.2 km) and features significant elevation changes, exploring the Green Cleugh Valley and utilizing the Pentland Hills Access Road.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Colinton are designed as loops. For example, the Torduff Reservoir – Bonaly Reservoir loop from Juniper Green is a popular 9.8-mile (15.8 km) circular trail that takes you through beautiful reservoir landscapes. Another option is the Torduff Reservoir – Pentland Hills Access Road loop from Bonaly, a moderate 22.1-mile (35.6 km) route.

The trails often offer views of the scenic Pentland Hills and several reservoirs like Torduff and Bonaly. You can also find natural landmarks such as Carnethy Hill and various viewpoints. While not directly on all trails, nearby attractions include prominent summits like Arthur's Seat and Scald Law Summit, offering panoramic views of the region.

The mountain bike trails around Colinton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, the scenic reservoir landscapes, and the extensive network of paths that cater to different ability levels. The natural beauty of the Pentland Hills is a consistent highlight.

Ride durations vary significantly based on the trail's length and difficulty. For instance, an easy route like the Torduff Reservoir – Pentland Hills Access Road loop from Kingsknowe, at 16.3 miles (26.2 km), typically takes around 1 hour 50 minutes. More challenging routes, such as the 31.8-mile (51.2 km) Green Cleugh Valley – Pentland Hills Access Road loop, can take up to 4 hours 40 minutes.

While mountain biking is possible year-round, the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) generally offer the most favorable weather conditions. During these periods, trails are typically drier, and daylight hours are longer. Be prepared for changeable weather, as is common in Scotland, and always check local forecasts before heading out.

While popular routes like those around Torduff Reservoir can see more traffic, exploring some of the less-traveled paths further into the Pentland Hills can offer a quieter experience. Look for routes that venture deeper into the moorland or those starting from less common access points to potentially find more solitude.

Common starting points for mountain bike trails in the area include Wester Hailes, Juniper Green, Bonaly, and Kingsknowe. These locations provide access to the network of paths leading into the Pentland Hills and around the reservoirs.