The best traffic-free bike rides around Kirkhill Forest

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Kirkhill Forest featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, predominantly moderate in difficulty, ensuring a pleasant ride away from vehicular traffic.

The trails in Kirkhill Forest generally feature firm and wide gravel surfaces, ideal for gravel biking. While many sections are well-maintained, you might encounter some uneven or rocky parts, particularly on more challenging routes. The forest's varied terrain includes both gentle paths and sections with notable elevation changes, such as those leading up to Tyrebagger Hill.

While most routes in this guide are rated as moderate, making them suitable for riders with some experience, the forest does offer varied terrain. For families, consider routes that stick to the wider, less technical gravel paths. Always check the route details for elevation and distance to ensure it matches your family's skill level. The Gorse-Lined Lane – View of Bucksburn Countryside loop from Aberdeen International Airport is one of the shorter options at 15.3 km.

Kirkhill Forest is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially wet or icy conditions on trails, especially in shaded areas, and shorter daylight. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many routes will take you past notable features. Tyrebagger Hill offers expansive views over the Aberdeenshire landscape, including glimpses of Aberdeen and Bennachie. At its summit, you'll find the historic Tappie Tower, a 19th-century folly providing panoramic vistas. The forest also features diverse tree species and opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer and red squirrels.

Yes, for a longer ride that includes riverside scenery, consider the Logierieve Wood – River Don at Dyce loop from Dyce. This route spans over 45 km and leads through forested areas alongside the River Don, offering a different natural landscape to explore.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Kirkhill Forest, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Riders often praise the extensive network of well-maintained trails, the varied forest scenery, and the opportunity to ride away from traffic. The challenging climbs and rewarding views from spots like Tyrebagger Hill are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Tyrebagger Hill Viewing Tower – Kirkhill Fun Park loop from Dyce and the Kirkhill Fun Park – Tyrebagger Hill Viewing Tower loop from Kingswells are both excellent circular options that explore key areas of the forest.

Kirkhill Forest is conveniently located north-west of Aberdeen and is easily accessible from the A96. There are car parks available within or near the forest, providing convenient access points for starting your gravel biking adventure. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local forest information boards.

While Kirkhill Forest itself is primarily a natural area, some longer routes may pass closer to amenities. For instance, the extensive Logierieve Wood – Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop loop from Newmachar, at over 66 km, offers the chance to pass by a café for a break and refreshments. It's always a good idea to check the route map for nearby towns or villages if you plan to stop for food or drinks.