The Cairngorms, the UK’s largest national park, offer a typically Scottish gravel terrain around Aviemore and Glenmore: forest tracks through a remnant of Caledonian forest, alongside Loch Morlich and under the watch of a free-ranging reindeer herd.
Forest tracks between a loch and Scots pines
From Aviemore, the tracks head into Glenmore Forest toward Loch Morlich and then Nethy Bridge, crossing stands of native Scots pine typical of the Caledonian forest. Expect around 35 km and 450 m of elevation gain for a loop representative of the region, on generally rolling Land Rover tracks.
Getting the ride right
Versatile gravel tyres around 40-45mm suit most of the area’s forest and Land Rover tracks. Midges, particularly active in the evening during Highland summers, justify a good repellent for late-day rides.
When to go
May to September, as winter often leaves the tracks snow-covered at this northern latitude. Summer offers the best conditions, with the option to combine the ride with a swim in Loch Morlich, one of the Highlands’ few sandy beaches.
Good to know
Aviemore, the Cairngorms’ main tourist town, well served by train from Edinburgh and Inverness, offers a wide choice of accommodation, with convenient access to Glenmore for extending the stay in the national park.
