4.3
(88)
888
riders
87
rides
Mountain biking around Kirkhill And Bunchrew offers diverse terrain, characterized by rolling hills, scenic glens, and the proximity to significant waterways like the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness. The region features a mix of forest trails, open country paths, and routes that follow the contours of the landscape. Mountain bikers can expect varied elevations and surfaces, providing a range of experiences.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3.5
(2)
15
riders
61.1km
04:40
790m
790m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
2
riders
55.1km
04:31
690m
690m
This moderate 34.2-mile mountain biking circuit explores the Inverness hills, Caledonian Canal, and coastal areas of the Scottish Highlands.

Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
15
riders
56.1km
04:03
710m
710m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(10)
22
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Der Caledonian Canal
1
0
Very good visitor centre with good guided tour lasting 1.25 hours. Tour costs £22 for adults and £10 for children.
0
0
I was reminded of a Walking Dead scene. Spoiler alert: There are signs everywhere that have been saying "Open and snacks" for ages and then you walk into what feels like a lost place. Only to be turned into a steak yourself. The bell rang but otherwise it was dead.
1
0
Participants on a tour of the distillery receive a 10% discount on purchases made on site in the visitor shop.
1
0
Easy trail & hills not bad, just the hill coming up from the canal is a wee bit steep at the houses you pass but can be cycled up
0
0
Good cycle/walk track & good down hill section heading into Inverness
0
0
Good wee cafe for everyone also has activities on sometimes
0
0
The mountain bike trails around Kirkhill And Bunchrew offer a range of difficulties. You'll find a good mix, with 20 easy routes, 61 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. While specific 'family' trails aren't explicitly listed, the region offers 20 easy routes that are generally suitable for families and less experienced riders. These often feature smoother paths and gentler gradients.
Beginners can choose from 20 easy mountain bike routes in the Kirkhill And Bunchrew area. These trails typically have less demanding terrain and elevation changes, providing a good introduction to mountain biking in the region.
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 6 difficult mountain bike routes available. These trails often feature steeper climbs, technical descents, and more rugged terrain. An example of a moderate to challenging route is Into Glen Orrin — a loop from Beauly, which covers 38.0 miles with significant elevation gain.
The best time for mountain biking in Kirkhill And Bunchrew is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and trails are less likely to be muddy or icy, offering more enjoyable riding conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
While it's possible to mountain bike in winter, conditions can be challenging due to colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potential snow or ice, especially on higher ground. Some trails may become very muddy. It's advisable to stick to lower-lying, well-maintained paths and be prepared for adverse weather.
Yes, the Kirkhill And Bunchrew area, being close to Inverness, offers various options for refreshments. You might find cafes or shops in nearby towns like Beauly or Inverness. For example, the Inverness Victorian Market offers several food and drink establishments.
Many trails in the region offer excellent views. The View of Loch Ness – Great Glen Way Forest Trail loop from New Craigs Hospital is specifically known for its views of Loch Ness. Additionally, the Inverness hills, Canal and coastal circuit provides coastal vistas and panoramic views from the hills.
The Kirkhill And Bunchrew area is rich in Scottish wildlife. You might spot red deer, roe deer, various bird species including birds of prey, and smaller mammals. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, especially in the forested and glen areas.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Kirkhill And Bunchrew are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include Into Glen Orrin — a loop from Beauly and the Glen Ord Distillery – Loch Glascarnoch Dam loop from Beauly.
Beyond the natural beauty of glens and lochs, you can encounter interesting landmarks. For instance, the Glen Ord Distillery – Loch Glascarnoch Dam loop from Beauly passes near the Glen Ord Distillery. You might also find historical sites or natural monuments like the St Mary's Well (Clootie Well) or the Carn na Leitire Summit Cairn in the wider region.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from nearly 90 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the diverse terrain, which includes rolling hills, scenic glens, and paths along the Caledonian Canal, offering a varied and engaging experience.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.