The best MTB trails around Lochwinnoch
4.3
(20)
112
riders
19
rides
Mountain biking around Lochwinnoch features a landscape characterized by rolling hills, lochs, and coastal proximity. The area offers a mix of terrain, from reservoir-side paths to routes with views of the Firth of Clyde. Tracks often traverse open countryside and can include sections near historical landmarks or wind farms.
Best mountain bike trails around Lochwinnoch
- The most popular mountain bike trail is The Pencil Monument – Largs Seafront loop from Holmwood, a 14.8 miles (23.8 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.0
(1)
13
riders
23.8km
02:00
450m
450m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
12
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
riders
40.1km
02:43
440m
440m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
40.7km
02:37
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
7
riders
35.5km
03:02
700m
700m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
Before heading to the Kelburn Trails Jump Area, it's advisable to check the latest trail conditions and any potential closures. For instance, the trail was reported closed on March 16, 2020. Staying updated ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. [1] https://www.trailforks.com/trails/the-jumps/
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Castle Semple Café is open daily 10.00 -17.00 hrs in summer, 10.00 – 16.00 hrs in winter, with coffee, cake, snacks, light refreshments and ice cream. https://clydemuirshiel.co.uk/park-sites/castle-semple-country-park/
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Entirely* rideable on a gravel bike but the water will be deeper than the bottom bracket and you will get wet feet. *except for short sections of painfully draggy gloop and once where we decided to bypass a flooded section of track and ended up almost knee deep in peaty water
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"Named for its rather distinctive shape, The Pencil was built in 1912 as a reminder of the Viking influence over Scotland. Overlooking the Firth of Clyde and standing at around 70 feet tall, the pencil remembers the Battle of Largs, where the Scottish defeated 160 ships belonging to the Norwegian King Haco. Take a leisurely walk along the prom in Largs towards the southern end at Bowen Craig and you can’t miss this monument standing 70 feet high in the shape of a pencil. The view from this spot of the Firth of Clyde and the Marina are lovely." Source: https://hiddenscotland.com/listings/largs-pencil-monument
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Alice Boyle, daughter of the current owner of Kelburn Estate Patrick Boyle, wrote a very detailed story about the graffiti project that she had initiated herself, together with her brother and a friend: https://www.aliceboyle.co.uk/the-graffiti-project-2007
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Situated between the car park and the entrance to Kelburn estate, this pavillon offers several info boards about the main attractions, Kelburn's history, as well as a map of the site.
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Magnus the Viking was gifted to the people of Largs by North Ayrshire Council in 2013 to commemorate the 750th anniversary of the historic Battle of Largs. The Vikings were defeated in the Battle of Largs in 1263, their last raid on Scottish soil. Under the Treaty of Perth, Magnus King of Norway surrendered the Western Isles and the Isle of Man to the Scottish Crown in 1266. (information taken from the sign nearby the statue)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Lochwinnoch?
There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Lochwinnoch, offering a diverse range of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Lochwinnoch?
Yes, Lochwinnoch offers 8 easy mountain bike trails that are well-suited for beginners and families. These routes typically feature gentler gradients and less technical terrain, often following reservoir-side paths or quieter country lanes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Lochwinnoch?
The terrain around Lochwinnoch is varied, characterized by rolling hills, lochs, and proximity to the coast. You can expect a mix of reservoir-side paths, open countryside, and sections near historical landmarks or wind farms. Some routes offer views of the Firth of Clyde.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for advanced riders?
Yes, for advanced riders seeking a challenge, there are 3 difficult mountain bike trails around Lochwinnoch. One such route is Fairlie Castle – Wind Turbine Gravel Track loop from Dalry, which features significant elevation gain and more technical sections.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I might see along the trails?
Many trails offer views of local attractions. You might pass by Castle Semple Loch or Loch Thom. Historical sites like Castle Semple Collegiate Church and The Pencil Monument are also accessible or visible from some routes.
Are there circular mountain bike routes available?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Lochwinnoch are designed as loops. For example, View of Loch Lochinver loop from Lochwinnoch is a moderate 41.3 km circular route offering scenic loch views.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Lochwinnoch?
The mountain bike trails in Lochwinnoch are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 16 reviews. Riders often praise the varied landscapes, from coastal views to lochside paths, and the mix of difficulties available.
When is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Lochwinnoch?
While mountain biking is possible year-round, the spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder weather and vibrant scenery. Summer can be excellent, but trails may be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved sections.
Are there any trails that offer pub stops or places to refuel?
While specific pub stops are not integrated into every route description, many trails pass through or near villages and towns where you can find amenities. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify potential stops for refreshments along the way.
Where can I park my car when accessing the mountain bike trails?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many routes start from or pass through areas with designated parking, such as near Muirhead Reservoir or in towns like Johnstone. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
Are there less crowded mountain bike trails in Lochwinnoch?
While some popular routes can see more traffic, the region offers a good number of trails. To find less crowded options, consider exploring some of the moderate or difficult routes, or plan your rides during off-peak times, such as weekdays or early mornings.
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