4.2
(81)
763
riders
100
rides
Mountain biking around Kirknewton offers routes through varied terrain, including the rolling hills of the Pentland Hills and the scenic Green Cleugh Valley. The area features a mix of reservoir-side paths and undulating landscapes. This provides diverse conditions for mountain bikers, from gentle trails to more challenging ascents.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3.0
(1)
4
riders
47.7km
04:05
790m
790m
This moderate 29.7-mile mountain bike loop from Livingstone explores the Pentland Hills, offering reservoir views and varied terrain.
2.0
(1)
5
riders
44.0km
03:01
400m
400m
This moderate 27.3-mile mountain bike loop from Livingston explores woodlands, meadows, and the River Almond, passing Ratho Marina.

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4.9
(19)
180
riders
17.3km
01:18
270m
270m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
24
riders
27.0km
02:07
360m
360m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
1.0
(1)
12
riders
41.2km
03:26
630m
630m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike. May need to hike a small 20m section depending on tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section, would be fine to ride down though
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike, not easy though :). There may be a small 20m section you have to hike depending on your tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section
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0
Great descent on a gravel bike, smooth but with some little drops from the occasional step. Very fun!
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Some great singletrack on this route.
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Extremely boggy and partially unridable for the first few miles from Little Vantage. Improves closer to Carlops. Would consider riding again after a prolonged dry spell.
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Fallen tree is now cleared away - vv wet just now!!
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There are over 100 mountain bike trails around Kirknewton, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find routes ranging from easy to difficult.
Yes, Kirknewton offers a good selection of easy mountain bike trails, with 35 routes specifically categorized as easy. An example is the Pentland Hills Access Road – Green Cleugh Valley loop from Balerno, which is 10.7 miles long and takes about 1 hour 18 minutes to complete.
For those seeking a moderate challenge, there are 65 moderate routes available. A popular option is the North Esk Reservoir loop from Livingstone, a 29.6-mile trail that typically takes around 4 hours 6 minutes to complete.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Kirknewton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Ratho Quay loop from Livingston and the Pentland Hills Access Road – Green Cleugh Valley loop from Balerno.
The mountain bike trails around Kirknewton feature varied terrain, including rolling hills, scenic reservoir-side paths, and green valleys, particularly within the Pentland Hills area. You can expect a mix of surfaces suitable for mountain biking.
While mountain biking near Kirknewton, you can explore several natural attractions. The area is close to the Pentland Hills, offering views from peaks like Scald Law Summit and Carnethy Hill. You can also ride past beautiful bodies of water such as Glencorse Reservoir and Loganlea Reservoir.
The mountain bike trails in Kirknewton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 70 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to scenic reservoirs, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Spring and summer generally offer the most favorable conditions for mountain biking in Kirknewton, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the trails can be enjoyed year-round, though some paths may be muddier in wetter seasons.
Absolutely. Many trails in Kirknewton, especially those traversing the Pentland Hills and passing by reservoirs like the North Esk Reservoir, offer scenic vistas. You can also find viewpoints such as View from Allermuir Hill and Castlelaw Hill nearby.
Trail durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. For example, an easy route like the Pentland Hills Access Road – Green Cleugh Valley loop from Balerno takes about 1 hour 18 minutes, while a moderate trail such as the North Esk Reservoir – North Esk Reservoir loop from Balerno can take around 3 hours 26 minutes.
Yes, Kirknewton has several easy-rated trails that are suitable for families. These routes typically have less challenging terrain and shorter distances, making them enjoyable for riders of varying ages and skill levels. Look for trails marked as 'easy' on komoot.
Many trails in the Kirknewton area, particularly those on public access land like the Pentland Hills Regional Park, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and to check specific trail regulations or signage before you go.
While specific cafes directly on every trail may vary, Kirknewton and nearby towns like Balerno and Livingston offer various amenities, including cafes and shops, where you can refuel before or after your ride. Planning your route can help identify convenient stops.


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