Top 3 Gorges around Glenlivet

This narrow unpaved passage runs between the two peaks of Càrn na Loinne and Càrn na h-Ailig. The singletrack undulates up and down and is known locally as the 'Thieves Pass' or 'Thieves Road' (Gaelic: Rathad nam Mèirleach). It's an old cattle rustlers' route between Deeside/Strathdon and Speyside via Glen Avon and the Braes of Abernethy. Nowadays, it's primarily a quiet, narrow gorge that's very scenic, though sometimes a bit technical for gravel bikes. Well worth a visit!

A fun rocky pass through the hillside. Care is needed and would be difficult to pass with small dogs or children. Even a walk through here is a thrilling day out. This can however be a very dangerous spot in winter, with snow building up around the gap.

Adds an interesting feature to an otherwise straightforward walk. Large boulders underfoot with gaps in between, dogs would likely need carried for most of it.

Glenn Rinnes follows Dullan Water southeast of Ben Rinnes, the dominating mountain above the valley. The main road (B9009) follows the glen but there are also smaller side roads that you can ride.

If you're hiking through the boulder-strewn jaws of the Chalamain Gap, odds are you are headed somewhere spectacular. This rocky defile connects the popular Cairngorm ski area with the magical Lairig Ghru – the great cleft through the heart of the Cairngorms. Properly known as Eag Choire a Chomhlaich, the Gap can be an awkward obstacle but nowhere is it overly technical.

Very nice lonely road through a wonderful landscape.

Technical and challenging descent that follows the ravine and river line down to the memorial hut. It's loose with drainage bars and challenging rock features. Well worth doing if you're experienced and confident on a bike.

less as a recommendation than as a warning! This piece is very, very uncomfortable, especially with a heavy backpack, the way through the Lairig Ghru is comparatively a walk. Doing a few more meters of altitude and going pathlessly over the Creag a' Chalamain is worth considering!