The best gravel rides around Waterside

Gravel biking around Waterside offers a diverse landscape. You'll encounter a mix of fells, scenic roads, and paths alongside lochs and canals. The terrain includes varied surfaces and gradients, from more level railway paths and waterways to routes with significant climbs in areas like the Campsie Fells.

While there are no routes specifically graded as 'easy' in Waterside, there are 11 moderate trails that might be suitable for beginners with some cycling experience. These routes generally feature less extreme elevation changes compared to the more difficult options.

The duration of gravel bike rides in Waterside varies significantly depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Bishop Loch – Lochend Loch loop from Duke Street is a moderate 20.7-mile (33.3 km) trail that typically takes around 1 hour 57 minutes, while the more challenging View from the Commondry – Old Drove Road loop from Kilsyth, at 46.5 miles (74.9 km), can take over 5 hours.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Waterside are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Tak-Ma-Doon Road – Campsie Fells Scenic Road loop from Tak Ma Doon Road Viewing and Picnic Area and the Strathkelvin Railway Path – Strathkelvin Railway Path loop from Blairhill.

Waterside's gravel routes often pass by interesting natural features. You might encounter waterfalls like Colzium Waterfall or Blairskaith Linn Waterfall. The Forth and Clyde Canal Towpath is also a prominent feature on some routes, offering scenic waterside riding.

Yes, Waterside features routes that utilize former railway paths and canal towpaths, providing relatively flat and consistent surfaces. The Strathkelvin Railway Path – Strathkelvin Railway Path loop from Blairhill is a prime example of a route incorporating a railway path, while the Forth and Clyde Canal – View of Auchinstarry Marina loop from Lenzie follows a canal.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Waterside, with an average score of 4.25 stars from 5 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, which includes fells, lochs, and former railway paths, offering options for both challenging climbs and more moderate excursions.

Absolutely. Waterside offers several difficult gravel bike routes for experienced riders. The Tak-Ma-Doon Road – Campsie Fells Scenic Road loop from Tak Ma Doon Road Viewing and Picnic Area, for instance, is a challenging 21.2-mile (34.1 km) route that navigates the scenic Campsie Fells with significant elevation changes.

Many routes in Waterside provide excellent viewpoints, especially those that ascend into the fells. The View from the Commondry – Old Drove Road loop from Kilsyth is known for its expansive views as it explores the area around Kilsyth and an old drove road.

Yes, you can find several viewpoints and points of interest. For example, Meikle Bin Summit and Croy Hill Roman Fort are notable viewpoints in the wider Waterside area that might be accessible or visible from some routes.

There are 16 gravel bike trails available in Waterside, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult, catering to different skill levels and preferences.