The best MTB trails around Carlops

There are over 35 mountain bike trails around Carlops, offering a diverse range of experiences within the Pentland Hills. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars.

Yes, Carlops offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Stone Tunnel – Roslin Glen Railway Tunnel loop from Penicuik is an easy 17.2-mile path that follows a former railway line through Roslin Glen, featuring a unique stone tunnel.

The terrain around Carlops is characterized by the varied landscape of the Pentland Hills. You can expect rolling hills, open moorland, deep valleys, and a mix of forested sections and exposed paths. Many routes also pass by scenic reservoirs.

While there are no trails explicitly rated as 'difficult' in this selection, many of the moderate routes offer significant climbs and longer distances for experienced riders. For instance, the Maidens Cleugh Climb – Pentland Hills Access Road loop from Balerno is a moderate 27.8-mile route with over 2,200 feet of elevation gain, providing a good challenge.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Carlops are convenient loop routes. Examples include the popular Green Cleugh Valley – Pentland Hills Access Road loop from Balerno, and the North Esk Reservoir – The Red Road, Pentland Hills loop from Nine Mile Burn.

The trails often pass by beautiful natural features and landmarks. You might encounter reservoirs like Glencorse Reservoir and North Esk Reservoir, or enjoy views from peaks such as Scald Law Summit, Carnethy Hill, and Castlelaw Hill. The Green Cleugh Valley is also a notable scenic spot.

Absolutely. The Pentland Hills are home to several reservoirs, and many mountain bike routes incorporate them. The Baddinsgill Reservoir – North Esk Reservoir loop from Carlops is a great example, offering views of both Baddinsgill and North Esk Reservoirs.

Trail durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. Easy routes like the Stone Tunnel loop can take around 1 hour 40 minutes, while moderate routes such as the Green Cleugh Valley loop typically take over 2 hours. Longer, more challenging routes can extend to 3 hours or more.

Carlops itself is a small village, but public transport options exist to nearby towns like Penicuik or Balerno, which serve as starting points for some trails. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to these areas, as direct access to all trailheads by public transport may be limited.

The mountain bike trails around Carlops are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views of the Pentland Hills, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.

While the Pentland Hills are popular, exploring some of the longer or slightly less accessible routes can offer a quieter experience. Trails starting from smaller villages or those venturing deeper into the moorland might provide more solitude compared to routes closer to major access points.