Little Ben Wyvis loop from Garve – Ben Wyvis National Nature Reserve

Embark on the Little Ben Wyvis loop from Garve for a moderate mountain biking adventure through the dramatic Highland scenery of the Ben Wyvis National Nature Reserve. This 13.3-mile (21.4 km) trail, with its 2500 feet (762 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You'll navigate varied terrain, from off-road tracks and single-track to well-established mountain paths. Expect spectacular Highland views, passing through native woodlands of aspen, birch, and rowan, alongside tumbling burns, leading up to a summit plateau. The route offers a mix of surfaces, which can include loose, uneven, or muddy sections, and some descents may feature steep stone steps and rocky areas.

While generally classified as moderate, requiring good fitness and some advanced riding skills for sections, the trail's early parts offer a nice steady single track with a gradual, mostly cyclable ascent. As you climb, the path can become narrower, undulating, and boggy in places. Be prepared for these changes in conditions, especially on the higher sections. The Ben Wyvis area is known for its range of routes, but this specific loop is designed to be an enjoyable mountain biking experience.

This popular trail traverses the Ben Wyvis National Nature Reserve, providing access to a unique upland environment dominated by the prominent Ben Wyvis mountain and its distinctive whaleback ridge. The landscape, shaped by the Ice Age, features coires, crags, and hummocks, offering incredible views throughout your ride. The summit plateau is home to a fragile moss heath, an internationally important habitat. You can enjoy panoramic vistas extending to Inverness, Dingwall, and the Black Isle from various points along the route.