The best gravel rides around Clarkston

Clarkston offers a range of gravel biking experiences, primarily featuring moderate to difficult routes. While there are no easy routes listed, you'll find 4 moderate trails and 2 difficult ones, providing options for riders looking for a challenge.

For those new to gravel biking or seeking a less strenuous ride, the Strathclyde Loch – Strathclyde Loch loop from Bothwell is an excellent choice. This 9 km (5.6 miles) route is rated as easy and can be completed in under 40 minutes, offering a gentle introduction to the area's gravel paths.

If you're looking for a significant challenge, the Strathkelvin Railway Path – Strathkelvin Railway Path loop from Blairhill is a difficult 81 km (50.3 miles) trail that follows a long-distance railway path, taking around 7 hours to complete. It offers extensive riding for experienced gravel bikers.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Clarkston are designed as loops. For example, the Cambusnethan Priory – Hamilton Mausoleum loop from New Stevenston is a popular 38 km (23.7 miles) circular trail, and the Pathway to the Canal – Monklands Canal Path loop from Blairhill offers a 26 km (16.3 miles) loop along canal-side paths.

The gravel trails around Clarkston often feature a blend of historical sites, disused railway lines, and waterways. You can explore former industrial areas, ride alongside canals, and pass by various lochs. Notable attractions include Strathclyde Loch, Lochend Loch, and Broadwood Loch, offering scenic views and points of interest.

The region's climate means that spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking. During these months, you'll likely encounter drier paths and more comfortable temperatures. However, the varied terrain, including old railway beds and canal paths, can be ridden year-round, though some sections might be muddier in wetter seasons.

For a family-friendly outing, the Strathclyde Loch – Strathclyde Loch loop from Bothwell is an easy, shorter route that circles a loch, providing a relatively flat and accessible experience suitable for various skill levels within a family.

The gravel biking routes in Clarkston are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average score of 5.0 stars from over 4 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, which includes historical landmarks, railway paths, and scenic canal-side trails, making for engaging and varied rides.

Yes, the Auchinstarry Quarry – View of Auchinstarry Marina loop from Moodiesburn is a moderate 21 km (13 miles) route that specifically highlights these features, offering unique industrial and waterside vistas.

The terrain in Clarkston is quite varied. You'll find relatively flat paths along disused railway beds, sections alongside canals, and routes with moderate elevation changes. The landscape often transitions between former industrial areas and more natural settings around lochs and waterways.

There are 6 gravel bike trails available in the Clarkston area, offering a good selection of routes for different preferences and skill levels, from moderate to difficult.