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Routes
MTB trails
United Kingdom
Scotland
Lothian

Kirknewton

The best MTB trails around Kirknewton

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.

Best mountain bike trails around Kirknewton

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is North Esk Reservoir loop from Livingstone, a 29.6 miles (47.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 6 minutes…

Last updated: April 26, 2026

3.0

(1)

4

riders

#1.

North Esk Reservoir loop from Livingstone

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.

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Moderate

2.0

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5

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This moderate 27.3-mile mountain bike loop from Livingston explores woodlands, meadows, and the River Almond, passing Ratho Marina.

Moderate
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Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate
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Popular around Kirknewton

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Tips from the Community

Mark Davison
September 25, 2025, Loganlea Reservoir

Excellent coffee and cake at the fishery.

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Jamie
August 30, 2025, Maidens Cleugh Climb

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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Jamie
August 30, 2025, Maidens Cleugh Climb

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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Great descent on a gravel bike, smooth but with some little drops from the occasional step. Very fun!

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smooth gravel, good for gravel rides

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are there in Kirknewton?

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.

Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Kirknewton?

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.

What are some more challenging mountain bike trails around Kirknewton?

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.

Can I find circular mountain bike routes in Kirknewton?

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.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Kirknewton?

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.

What are some points of interest or natural attractions I can see while mountain biking near Kirknewton?

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.

What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Kirknewton?

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.

When is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Kirknewton?

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.

Are there mountain bike trails in Kirknewton that offer good views?

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.

How long do mountain bike trails in Kirknewton typically take to complete?

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.

Are there family-friendly mountain bike trails in Kirknewton?

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.

Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails in Kirknewton?

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.

Are there cafes or places to refuel near the mountain bike trails in Kirknewton?

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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