The best MTB trails around Braemar
4.4
(74)
522
riders
37
rides
Mountain biking around Braemar offers diverse terrain within the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, characterized by the majestic Grampian Mountains. The region features extensive heather moorland, lush Caledonian Pine forests, and the scenic River Dee, providing a variety of natural tracks and paths. This environment includes numerous Munros and offers a dramatic backdrop for mountain biking adventures. The landscape provides a mix of challenging climbs and more gentle riverside routes.
Best mountain bike trails around Braemar
- The most popular…
Last updated: August 11, 2026
5.0
(26)
86
riders
Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure through the Cairngorms National Park, connecting Invercauld Bridge to the historic Balmoral Castle. This 24.2 miles (39.0 km) loop demands good fitness and…
4.7
(6)
61
riders
Embark on a challenging mountain biking adventure from the picturesque Linn of Quoich Punchbowl to Beinn a'Bhuird, traversing Glen Quoich in the Cairngorms National Park. This moderate to hard route…
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4.7
(10)
36
riders
23.5km
01:34
220m
220m
Embark on the Braemar, River Dee and Invercauld Bridge loop for a mountain biking adventure through the heart of Cairngorms National Park. This route takes you along the picturesque River…
5.0
(2)
21
riders
27.0km
03:18
300m
300m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.0
(6)
23
riders
34.5km
02:44
500m
500m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Popular around Braemar
The Firetrail — Three days around the River Dee
Adventures Around Aberdeenshire — Bikepacking moorland, forest and coast
The Central Belter — Gravel trails of the coast and Cairngorms
Cairngorms Loop — Burns, Lochs & Bothies of the Scottish Highlands
Scotty's Scotland Showcase — A sustainable tour of the country's best trails
Aberdeenshire — Scotty's Scotland Showcase
Cairngorms Gold — Discovering the national park
The Grampians in full glory — Bikepacking the Deeside Trail
TGO Challenge 2023 – Coast to Coast: Oban to Montrose
Bothies of Britain: hiking and biking adventures to unique mountain shelters
Other adventures around Braemar
Tips from the Community
Great multi-use gravel track.
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Very delicious food, friendly service - my full recommendation! For those who the name "the bothy" doesn't mean anything: A Scotsman explained to me that a "bothy" is a hut (usually) in the mountains that has everything a wet, tired, hungry hiker needs for making fire, cooking, and sleeping. After use, the hut is returned to a clean state by the hiker, everything that can be replenished is replenished, and the rest is done by volunteers who have dedicated themselves to this task. Great thing!
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This is a key landmark, needs to be crossed to reach these hills.
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This famous summer residence of the British royal family can only be visited in spring and early summer with an entrance ticket through the main entrance. This provides access to the castle gardens and the castle ballroom, where a different exhibition is held each year. There is also a café and a gift shop. Cycling is prohibited around the castle, but with a ticket, we were allowed to explore the grounds with our bikes in hand. We parked our bikes near the café. Since 2025, a few tickets per day have also been available for enthusiasts to visit the castle's private apartments in small groups, including the room where Queen Elizabeth II's last photograph was taken. Very special, but also highly sought-after and expensive.
3
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Impressive gorge with a waterfall and views from the old stone bridge. Impressive and worth a stop.
3
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This famous summer residence of the British royal family can only be visited in spring and early summer with an entrance ticket through the main entrance. This provides access to the castle gardens and the castle ballroom, where a different exhibition is held each year. There is also a café and a gift shop. Cycling is prohibited around the castle, but with a ticket, we were allowed to explore the grounds with our bikes in hand. We parked our bikes near the café. Since 2025, a few tickets per day have also been available for enthusiasts to visit the castle's private apartments in small groups, including the room where Queen Elizabeth II's last photograph was taken. Very special, but also highly sought-after and expensive.
3
0
Royal gravel! And that's how it rides too. Beautiful, hard gravel roads that wind through the stunning forest. I could cycle here for days.
3
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Braemar?
Braemar offers a wide selection of mountain biking opportunities, with over 35 routes available on komoot. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy riverside paths to challenging mountain ascents within the Cairngorms National Park.
Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Braemar?
Yes, Braemar has 14 easy mountain bike trails, perfect for beginners or family outings. A great option is the Braemar, River Dee and Invercauld bridge loop – Cairngorms National Park, which follows the scenic River Dee valley.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Braemar?
The terrain around Braemar is incredibly diverse, ranging from extensive heather moorland and lush Caledonian Pine forests to rugged mountain paths. You'll find a mix of natural tracks and paths, with options for gentle riverside rides along the River Dee and more demanding climbs into the Grampian Mountains.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Braemar?
Yes, many routes around Braemar are designed as loops. For example, the From Invercauld Bridge to Balmoral Castle and Bealach Dearg loop – Cairngorms National Park offers a moderate circular ride exploring the scenic surroundings of Balmoral Castle. Another popular option is the Braemar Castle – Invercauld Bridge loop from Braemar.
Can I find mountain bike trails that pass by waterfalls in the Braemar area?
Absolutely! The Braemar area is known for its beautiful waterfalls. You can explore routes that take you near highlights like the Linn of Dee Waterfall and Bridge or The Punch Bowl, Linn of Quoich. The Linn of Dee – Linn of Dee Waterfall loop from Linn of Dee is a challenging route that includes the Linn of Dee.
What are some challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders near Braemar?
Experienced riders will find plenty of challenging routes. The Linn of Quoich Punchbowl to Beinn a'Bhuird via Glen Quoich – Cairngorms National Park is a moderate route with significant elevation gain towards Beinn a'Bhuird. For a difficult option, consider the Linn of Dee – Linn of Dee Waterfall loop from Linn of Dee.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks I can see while mountain biking around Braemar?
Yes, the trails often pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can cycle near historic sites like Balmoral Castle or Braemar Castle. Natural attractions include the dramatic Linn of Dee gorge and various Munros offering spectacular views. The Linn of Dee Waterfall and Bridge is a notable highlight.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Braemar?
The mountain bike trails around Braemar are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the challenging climbs, and the stunning natural beauty of the Cairngorms National Park.
Is it possible to spot wildlife while mountain biking in Braemar?
Yes, the Braemar area, being within the Cairngorms National Park and near the Mar Lodge Estate, is rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, red deer, golden eagles, and otters, especially in the quieter sections of trails that pass through Caledonian Pine forests and along riverbanks.
Are there any dedicated mountain bike parks or trail centers near Braemar?
While Braemar itself doesn't have dedicated trail centers, the wider Aberdeenshire region offers options. Tarland Trails is Aberdeenshire's only purpose-built mountain bike trail center, and Glenlivet Trails are also within a short drive. You can also find highlights like Cairngorm Bike Park and Hutchison Hut Descent listed as bike park highlights in the broader area.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Braemar?
The best time for mountain biking in Braemar is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and trails are generally drier. During these months, you'll experience the full beauty of the heather moorland and forests. Winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of snow and ice conditions, especially at higher elevations.
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