The best MTB trails around Gorgie/Dalry

There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Gorgie/Dalry listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

Yes, Gorgie/Dalry offers 5 easy mountain bike routes. A great option is the Slateford Aqueduct – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Haymarket, which is 24.3 km long and takes approximately 1 hour 25 minutes. This route is generally less challenging and suitable for those looking for a relaxed ride.

Mountain bike routes around Gorgie/Dalry vary significantly. For example, moderate trails like the Forth Bridge – Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack loop from Haymarket cover about 37 km and take around 2 hours 26 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack – Hopetoun House loop from Haymarket, can extend to nearly 49 km and require over 3 hours to complete.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find urban greenspaces and canal towpaths for casual rides, coastal singletrack with views of the Forth Bridge, and routes that provide access to the foothills of the Pentland Hills. Some trails, like those along the Dalmeny Shoreline, feature unpaved segments and can be quite dynamic.

While most routes are easy to moderate, there is at least one difficult mountain bike trail available for experienced riders seeking a greater challenge. These more demanding routes often involve steeper climbs and more technical sections, particularly as you venture towards areas like the Pentland Hills.

Many routes offer scenic views. For instance, the View of the River Almond – Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack loop from Haymarket provides lovely river and coastal vistas. You can also find routes that pass by significant landmarks such as the Forth Bridge. For broader views of Edinburgh, consider exploring areas near Arthur's Seat or Corstorphine Hill Tower, which are accessible from the wider Edinburgh area.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to urban green spaces, and the accessibility to various attractions and scenic points.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Gorgie/Dalry are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Forth Bridge – Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack loop from Haymarket and the View of the River Almond – Forth Road Bridge loop from Haymarket.

While mountain biking can be enjoyed year-round, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved sections.

Gorgie/Dalry's urban location within Edinburgh means many trails are accessible by public transport or are a short ride away from central transport hubs like Haymarket. Routes often start from areas well-connected by local bus services, making it convenient to reach the trailheads without a car.

As Gorgie/Dalry is an urban area, parking can be found in various public car parks or on-street parking zones, though availability may vary. For trails further afield, specific parking areas are often designated near popular trailheads, particularly in larger parks or regional attractions like the Pentland Hills.

Given the proximity to Edinburgh city center, there are numerous cafes, shops, and eateries in Gorgie/Dalry itself and along many of the urban and semi-urban routes. For trails that venture further out, it's advisable to check the route details for specific amenities or plan to carry your own refreshments.