The best traffic-free bike rides around Glentress Forest
4.6
(37)
447
riders
13
rides
Gravel biking around Glentress Forest offers an extensive network of no traffic gravel bike trails within the scenic Tweed Valley. The region is characterized by rolling hills, dense forest tracks, and well-maintained forest roads, providing varied terrain for cyclists. These routes often feature a mix of firm gravel paths and non-technical trails, with elevations that offer panoramic views over the valley. The landscape is shaped by the Tweed Valley Forest Park, encompassing lush woodlands and tranquil streams.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Glentress Forest
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Peebles Tunnel Entrance – Gypsy Glen Trail loop from Peebles, a 15.0 miles (24.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 8 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant climbs and varied forest paths.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Tweed Valley Near Innerleithen – Innerleithen XC Trail loop from Peebles, a moderate 26.9 miles (43.3 km) path. This route traverses the wider Tweed Valley, offering a mix of forest roads and scenic views.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Peebles to Eddleston Bike Path – Valley Road View loop from Peebles, a 24.5 miles (39.5 km) trail leading through varied forest and valley landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 38 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Glentress Forest is defined by extensive forest tracks, rolling hills, and the scenic Tweed Valley. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Glentress Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 30 reviews. Nearly 500 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Glentress Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
3.5
(2)
21
riders
24.2km
02:08
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(7)
39
riders
43.4km
02:40
400m
400m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
18
riders
39.5km
02:38
430m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
37.9km
03:23
800m
800m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Glentress Forest
Tips from the Community
Jubilee woods are tiny and people are walking their dogs. I'd avoid personally. Go to Cademuir Hill instead. Either via Haystoun or Bonnington Rd. Or go up Gypsy Glen. More trails up that way as you approach the back road to Innerleithen. Plus you can go back to Peebles via Cardrona and the cycle path.
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The tarmac cycle path following the river Tweed from Glentress makes Innerleithen super accessible which in turn provides you with free range to pedal the ‘old’ XC & DH trails, it also provides easy access to the current ‘trendy’ gravity orientated hot spot of Golfie, named so, as it’s situated above the golf course. First off the Old XC, (starts from the carpark over the bridge by the river) it was very sad to see the current trashed & sorry state of what appears to be the forgotten XC Trail, after having ridden it many times since the early eighties! The long climb at the start is currently cut short & diverted with no access up to the top from what I could see? The remainder of the trails are just trashed with the mighty Caddon Bank DH a shadow of its former self. Golfie is an easy pedal across the village with some great coffee stop opportunities enroute. One in particular Findra on the high st deserves a Big shout out, it’s stylish, MTB rider (muddy bum) friendly, sells fantastic coffee & food has uber cool curated music. Oh it also sells very cool artisan made clothing. There are others in the village which all look fab but Findra was the one we stopped at. The Findra staff ride mountain bikes, are super friendly & great for local riding knowledge 😉👍 Golfie is a short pedal through the village towards the Golf club & then a longish pedal up a Forest road with ‘natural’ trails spilling off the side of the hill in varying degrees of difficulty. Be prepared for full on gnar, chunder, roots, very steep drop offs & lots n lots of muddy gloop if the weather has not been kind. No manicured trails here! If you keep pedalling you’ll eventually reach the old reservoir where the views are magnificent & several trail go off in several directions. My advice, if it’s your first time riding Golfie try & take someone who’s ridden it before as some of the trails start off very benign but then transform like Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde! Wear body armour that allows you to pedal, but all the same wear body armour😜👍
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Connecting the 7 staines. You can bike from Walkerburn, Innerleithen and Glentress on this path.
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Nice stretch of old track bed , was a welcome respite from all the climbing earlier in the day
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Can get very muddy. Tough but doable climb on gravel bike
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Glentress Forest?
Glentress Forest offers a good selection of dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails. This guide features 12 routes, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Glentress Forest to avoid traffic?
To best enjoy the no-traffic gravel trails, spring and autumn are ideal. The weather is generally milder, and the forest is less crowded than during peak summer. Winter can also offer quiet rides, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions on some sections.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel bike routes in Glentress Forest?
Yes, Glentress Forest has options suitable for families. Look for routes described as 'easy' or those utilizing the wider, firmer gravel paths within the forest. These often connect key facilities and provide accessible routes with resting points, perfect for a relaxed family outing away from cars.
Can I find circular no-traffic gravel bike routes in Glentress Forest?
Many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Glentress Forest are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Peebles Tunnel Entrance – Gypsy Glen Trail loop from Peebles, which offers a challenging but rewarding circular experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Glentress Forest?
The no-traffic gravel trails in Glentress Forest offer a diverse mix of surfaces. You'll encounter well-maintained forest roads, some sections of tarmac, and non-technical trails. While generally smooth, some routes may include challenging climbs and descents, providing a varied and engaging ride.
Are there any viewpoints or notable landmarks along the quiet gravel bike trails?
Absolutely! Many trails offer stunning views over the Tweed Valley. You can ascend to the mast at the top of Glentress Forest for panoramic vistas. Historical elements like the remains of an Iron Age hill fort at Janet's Brae also provide interesting stops and spectacular views over Peebles.
What are the difficulty levels of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Glentress Forest?
The trails cater to a range of abilities. This guide includes 1 easy route, 4 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes. For instance, the Tweed Valley Near Innerleithen – Innerleithen XC Trail loop from Peebles is a moderate option, while the The Bridge Inn – Singletrack Climb loop from Peebles presents a more difficult challenge with significant elevation gain.
Where can I park when accessing the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Glentress Forest?
Glentress Forest has dedicated car parks, which are the primary access points for the trail networks. These facilities are well-signposted and provide convenient starting points for your gravel biking adventure, keeping you away from main road traffic.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Glentress Forest?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Glentress Forest, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 35 ratings. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of quiet forest roads, the stunning Tweed Valley scenery, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from vehicle traffic.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, experienced riders looking for a longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel experience will find several options. Routes like the Innerleithen XC Trail – Angry Sheep Drop-In loop from Cardrona, covering over 50 km with significant elevation, offer a demanding ride through the forest's quieter sections.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Glentress Forest?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Glentress Forest, provided they are kept under control, especially around wildlife and other forest users. Always ensure to clean up after your dog to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
Are there any facilities like cafes or restrooms near the no-traffic gravel bike trailheads?
Glentress Forest is well-equipped with visitor facilities. You'll find cafes, restrooms, and bike hire/repair shops at the main visitor centers, often located conveniently near the trailheads. These amenities make it easy to refuel and prepare for your ride.
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