The best MTB trails around Craigleith/Blackhall

There are over 160 mountain bike trails around Craigleith/Blackhall, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Craigleith/Blackhall offers a good selection of trails for beginners. There are over 50 easy routes, such as the Slateford Aqueduct – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Haymarket, which is 15.1 miles (24.3 km) long and takes around 1 hour 25 minutes to complete.

Trail lengths vary significantly. You'll find routes ranging from shorter, easier rides to longer, more challenging excursions. For example, the View of the River Almond – Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack loop from Haymarket is 18.8 miles (30.2 km) and takes about 1 hour 57 minutes, while the Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack – Hopetoun House loop from Haymarket extends to 30.2 miles (48.7 km) and typically takes around 3 hours 10 minutes.

Many of the mountain bike trails in Craigleith/Blackhall are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Forth Bridge – Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack loop from Haymarket and the View of the River Almond – Forth Road Bridge loop from Haymarket.

The region offers diverse terrain, including coastal paths with engaging singletrack sections, riverine trails along the River Almond, and routes that incorporate historical infrastructure like aqueducts. You'll encounter a mix of natural surfaces and paths through urban green spaces.

While riding, you can enjoy views of the River Almond and the Forth Bridge. Nearby attractions include Corstorphine Hill Tower and various viewpoints offering panoramas of Edinburgh, such as View of Edinburgh from Blackford Hill.

The trails in Craigleith/Blackhall are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 120 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, which combines coastal views, river valleys, and urban green spaces, offering varied experiences for all skill levels.

While the majority of trails are easy to moderate, there are 12 difficult routes available for experienced riders seeking more challenging terrain. These routes often feature more technical sections and greater elevation changes.

The trails in Craigleith/Blackhall can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet or muddy conditions, especially on coastal and riverine paths.

While specific 'hidden gems' are often discovered through local exploration, the region's extensive network of over 160 trails means there are always new paths to uncover beyond the most popular routes. Exploring the less-trafficked sections of the River Almond trails or the varied singletrack along the coastline can reveal unique riding experiences.

Yes, with over 50 easy routes, many trails are suitable for families, especially those looking for less strenuous rides. These routes often follow flatter sections along rivers or through parks, providing a pleasant experience for riders of all ages.