The best gravel rides around Aviemore

Aviemore offers a wide variety of gravel biking experiences, with over 35 routes available on komoot. These range from easy forest tracks to challenging climbs, ensuring options for all skill levels.

Yes, Aviemore has several accessible routes suitable for families. The Old Logging Way – Aviemore to Glenmore Trail is a great option, offering a wide, smooth, and gently climbing path that connects Aviemore to Glenmore, passing by Loch Morlich. The Glen Tromie to Glen Feshie loop is also noted as a non-technical, beginner-friendly option.

For beginners, the Old Logging Way is an excellent starting point, providing an accessible path through scenic areas. The newly-laid gravel trails on the Glen Tromie to Glen Feshie 30-mile off-road loop also offer a non-technical and enjoyable experience. You can find 8 easy routes in the area on komoot.

For a more challenging experience, consider routes that incorporate sections of the Burma Road Loop, known for its significant altitude gain and gradients up to 22%. The Old Logging Way Gravel Path – Path to Loch Einich loop from Aviemore is rated as difficult and extends into more challenging forest trails. The Alvie and Kinrara Estates also provide gravel trails with engaging climbs and exhilarating descents.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Aviemore are circular. Popular options include the Ryvoan Bothy – Loch Morlich loop from Loch Morlich and the Loch an Eilein Castle – Loch an Eilein loop from Aviemore, both offering beautiful scenery on a looped path.

Gravel biking in Aviemore offers stunning natural landscapes within the Cairngorms National Park. You'll ride through ancient Caledonian pine forests, alongside picturesque lochs like Loch Morlich and Loch an Eilein, and enjoy views of dramatic mountains. The region is also home to the River Spey, providing scenic riverside access.

The Cairngorms National Park is rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, deer, mountain hares, and various bird species like capercaillie and golden eagles, especially when riding through the ancient Caledonian pine forests and quieter areas.

Many routes pass by notable landmarks. The Loch an Eilein Castle – Loch an Eilein loop takes you past the historic island castle ruin. You can also find highlights like Cairn Gorm Summit, Herdsman's Hill, and Sgòr Gaoith Summit nearby, offering incredible viewpoints.

The gravel biking routes around Aviemore are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.86 stars from over 98 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning natural beauty of the Cairngorms, and the well-maintained forest tracks.

Aviemore is a year-round destination for outdoor activities. While gravel biking is enjoyable in warmer months, the varied terrain and extensive forest tracks can also be explored in winter, though weather conditions can be more challenging. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Aviemore is well-connected by public transport, making it a good base for exploring. Many trails, such as sections of the Old Logging Way and routes around Rothiemurchus, are accessible directly from or very close to the town, which has a train station and bus services.

Parking is generally available at key access points for many trails, including around Loch Morlich and Glenmore Forest Park. Aviemore itself also offers various parking facilities, providing convenient starting points for routes that begin directly from the town.