The best gravel rides around Old Monkland
4.5
(2)
22
riders
5
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Gravel biking around Old Monkland offers a diverse landscape characterized by historic waterways, expansive country parks, and former railway lines. The region features sections of the Monkland Canal, repurposed into cycling paths with varied surfaces, and Drumpellier Country Park, known for its ancient woodlands, moorland, and grasslands. These features provide a mix of terrain, scenic views, and wildlife, catering to various levels of outdoor activity.
Best gravel bike trails around Old Monkland
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Old Graveyard and Mausoleum – Cadzow Oaks loop from New Stevenston, a 24.0 miles (38.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 36 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores varied terrain, including historical sites and natural landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Strathkelvin Railway Path – Katrine Aqueduct Pipe Track loop from Blairhill, a difficult 50.0 miles (80.6 km) path. This route follows a converted railway line, offering extensive views and a challenging ride.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Craigallian Loch – Strathkelvin Railway Path loop from Moodiesburn, a 33.3 miles (53.6 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 3 hours 8 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Old Monkland is defined by historic canal paths, expansive country park woodlands, and converted railway lines. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy canal-side rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Old Monkland are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 20 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Old Monkland's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5
riders
38.7km
02:36
400m
400m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
4
riders
54.0km
03:10
430m
430m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
16.8km
01:04
140m
140m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great walk, white bridge currently closed
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A gravel track that follows the trail of the Katrine Aqueducts that brings Glasgow's drinking water all the way from the Trossachs to Milngavie. Look out for exposed sections of the aqueducts as you travel along, one section in particular has a date marker of 1892 visible from the track. Stunning views over the Kilpatrick Hills and you can always drop down to Glengoyne distillery for a wee dram on the way past!
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Once you get out of Kirkie, the path is quiet. It's a lovely cycle with lots to see.
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Beautiful route, but quiet only in parts, there are some particularly challenging and dangerous intersections and roundabouts when there is heavy traffic.
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Join the trail behind McDonald’s and it runs alongside the river all the way up to Milton of Campsie/ Lennoxtown/ Campsie Hills and further on. Lovely picturesque journey!
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if you have thinner bike wheels just look out for nature's speed bumps
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Nice to see in the video: https://youtu.be/FTvrh28-ojY
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of gravel bike trails can I find around Old Monkland?
Old Monkland offers a varied landscape for gravel biking, featuring historic canal paths like the Monkland Canal, expansive country park woodlands such as those in Drumpellier Country Park, and river trails along the North Calder Water. You'll find a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, suitable for different skill levels.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Old Monkland has several easy routes. For a relatively flat and scenic ride, consider the David Livingstone Bridge – Uddingston Railway Bridge loop from Blantyre, which is 16.7 km long. The historic Monkland Canal paths are also generally flat and offer a gentle introduction to gravel biking.
Where can I find longer or more challenging gravel bike routes?
For a more challenging and longer ride, the Strathkelvin Railway Path – Strathkelvin Railway Path loop from Blairhill covers 81.0 km and is rated as difficult. Routes exploring the North Calder Water can also offer more challenging elements due to potentially muddy and overgrown sections.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the gravel bike trails?
Many routes offer historical and natural points of interest. You might pass by Strathclyde Loch, which has a former mining village beneath its surface. Other nearby attractions include the historic Bothwell Castle and the David Livingstone Birthplace museum. The Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Heritage is also accessible via the North Calder Heritage Trail.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the area?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Old Monkland are designed as loops. Examples include the Pathway to the Canal – Monklands Canal Path loop from Blairhill and the Chatelherault Country Park – Strathclyde Loch loop from Wishaw, offering convenient starting and ending points.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Old Monkland?
The gravel biking routes around Old Monkland are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 14 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the blend of natural beauty and historical features, and the well-maintained sections of canal paths and country parks.
Is Drumpellier Country Park suitable for gravel biking?
Absolutely. Drumpellier Country Park, near Coatbridge, is an excellent spot for gravel bikers. It features 54 hectares of ancient woodlands, moors, and grasslands, with varied tracks and sections of the National Cycle Network Route 75. The presence of Lochend Loch adds to its scenic appeal.
Can I access these gravel trails using public transport?
Many routes in the Old Monkland area are accessible via public transport, particularly those starting from towns like Blairhill or Wishaw, which have train stations. The historic Monkland Canal paths, for instance, often run close to urban areas, making them convenient to reach.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the gravel biking routes?
While specific routes may vary, the wider area around Old Monkland, including towns like Coatbridge and Airdrie, offers various amenities. Within Strathclyde Country Park, you can find the Waterfront Café, which is a convenient stop for refreshments on routes that pass through or near the park.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Old Monkland?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Old Monkland, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. While winter riding is possible, some sections, particularly along the North Calder Water, can become muddy and overgrown, adding to the challenge.
Are there any routes that explore Chatelherault Country Park?
Yes, the Chatelherault Country Park – Strathclyde Loch loop from Wishaw is a popular moderate route that explores the varied terrain within Chatelherault Country Park and also passes by Strathclyde Loch.
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