The best traffic-free bike rides around Craik Forest

There are several dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Craik Forest, offering a peaceful escape into the Scottish Borders. This guide highlights 5 routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The routes in Craik Forest vary, but generally feature quiet single-track roads, wide forest tracks, and some unpaved segments. While there are no easy routes listed in this selection, you'll find 2 moderate routes, such as the Bike loop from High Seat, and 3 difficult routes, like the challenging Moffat to Drumlanrigg Castle gravel loop via Glenlieth Fell, which includes significant elevation gains.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, Craik Forest generally offers a mix of trails. Many forest tracks are wide and less strenuous, suitable for families with some cycling experience. For a moderate option, consider the Bike loop from Craik, which covers 14.15 km with manageable elevation.

Craik Forest is known for its extensive coniferous woodlands, rolling hills, and serene riverside paths along the Borthwick Water and Aithouse Burn. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, including red squirrels and various woodland birds. You might also discover hidden glens and picturesque waterfalls, such as the prominent Wolfcleugh Waterfall, which is accessible via some trails.

Yes, Craik Forest has a rich history. Some cycling routes follow remnants of an old Roman road that traverses the forest and goes over Craik Cross Hill. You can also visit the Halifax MK II JP190 Memorial and Picnic Site, which commemorates an aircraft crash from 1944 and offers a place for rest.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil escape offered by the remote woodland setting, the sense of 'getting away from it all,' and the diverse trails that provide both scenic beauty and a good workout.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Moffat to Drumlanrigg Castle gravel loop via Glenlieth Fell is a difficult route spanning approximately 86 km. Another substantial option is the Gair Bridge Over Tima Water – Ramps Up loop from Eskdalemuir, covering about 46 km.

Many routes can be accessed from various points around the forest. For example, the Bike loop from High Seat and the Bike loop from Craik are good options for starting within the forest itself. Eskdalemuir also serves as a starting point for routes like the Eskdalemuir Forest Track – Eskdalemuir Community Hub loop.

Absolutely. The Quiet Single-Track Road Through the Scottish Borders is known for its peaceful environments and scenic viewpoints. The Time Water Valley also offers beautiful vistas, and the Valley Road to Moffat provides another picturesque perspective.

Craik Forest is enjoyable throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with vibrant foliage and milder temperatures. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be beautiful but may require more preparation for colder weather and potentially icy patches on some forest tracks.

While Craik Forest itself is quite remote, the surrounding areas and nearby villages like Eskdalemuir may offer limited facilities. It's advisable to plan your route and carry sufficient supplies. The Craikhope Outdoor Centre provides accommodation and facilities for groups, but for general cafes and pubs, you might need to venture further to larger towns.