The best traffic-free bike rides around Butterstone Loch

There are currently three dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails featured in this guide for the Butterstone Loch area. These routes offer a fantastic way to explore the region's natural beauty away from roads.

The gravel bike trails in this guide are generally rated as moderate. They offer a good balance of challenge and scenic enjoyment, suitable for riders with some experience. Expect varied terrain, including some climbs and descents, as you navigate through woodlands and along loch-sides.

Yes, all the featured routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Mill Dam Lochan – Loch Ordie loop from Dunkeld and the Loch Ordie – Mill Dam Lochan loop from Dowally are excellent options for a full loop experience.

The trails around Butterstone Loch offer stunning natural scenery, including the 'gin clear' waters of the loch itself and the wider Lunan Lochs chain. You'll ride through heavily wooded areas like Drumbuie Wood and enjoy views of rolling hills. The area is part of the Cardney Estate nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, so keep an eye out for diverse wildlife such as ospreys, red squirrels, and deer.

While the routes are rated moderate, they can be enjoyed by beginners with a reasonable level of fitness and some experience on varied terrain. For families, consider the distances (ranging from 22km to 26km) and elevation gains. The lack of traffic makes them safer, but the terrain can be challenging in places. Always assess your family's capabilities before setting out.

Many routes in the area, such as the Mill Dam Lochan – Loch Ordie loop from Dunkeld, often start from or pass through towns like Dunkeld. Parking facilities are typically available in these larger settlements, providing convenient access points to the trail network. Always check local parking regulations before your ride.

The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter biking is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially on less maintained sections of the trails.

The nearby town of Dunkeld, which serves as a starting point for routes like the Mill Dam Lochan – Dunkeld Town Centre loop from Dunkeld and Birnam, offers various cafes and amenities where you can refuel before or after your ride. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Butterstone Loch, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning loch-side and woodland scenery, and the rewarding sense of escape into nature.

Many outdoor trails in Scotland are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, as Butterstone Loch is within a nature reserve. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and be mindful of other trail users and the natural environment.

Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, a gravel bike is ideal. Ensure your tires are suitable for mixed surfaces, and consider carrying a repair kit, extra layers of clothing, and plenty of water and snacks. A GPS device or the komoot app is highly recommended for navigation, as some sections might be less signposted.