The best traffic-free bike rides in Loch Lomond

The Loch Lomond area, particularly around Aberfoyle (known as 'Gravelfoyle'), offers an extensive network of off-road tracks. This guide features 13 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a diverse experience for riders seeking car-free adventures.

You'll encounter a variety of surfaces, from well-maintained forestry tracks and fire roads to more rugged dirt single tracks. The region's unique position on the Highland Boundary Fault line means a mix of lowland and highland terrains, offering both gentle stretches and challenging climbs with stunning views.

While many routes in this guide are rated as difficult, the wider Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park offers options suitable for families. Look for the waymarked gravel cycling trails near Aberfoyle, which include shorter loops of 10km and 17km, often on well-maintained forestry tracks, perfect for a family outing away from traffic.

Many of the forestry tracks and public rights of way in Loch Lomond are dog-friendly, provided your dog is well-behaved and kept under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or during lambing season. Remember to pack water for your dog and clean up after them.

The trails offer breathtaking scenery. You can ride past stunning lochs like Loch Ard and Loch Chon, and enjoy views of majestic peaks such as Ben Lomond. Highlights include the panoramic vistas from View of Loch Lomond from Conic Hill and the serene Inversnaid Falls. The region is also home to diverse wildlife, so keep an eye out for red deer and ospreys.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in Loch Lomond are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the View of Loch Ard – Gravel Path Along Loch Chon loop from Drymen offers a substantial circular ride through beautiful forest landscapes.

Designated parking areas are available at key access points to the national park and forestry commission lands. Popular starting points like Aberfoyle, Drymen, and Ardgartan often have car parks suitable for trail access. Always check for parking fees and availability, especially during peak season.

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant conditions with cooler temperatures, fewer midges, and stunning scenery as the landscape changes colour. Summer can be beautiful but busier, while winter can be challenging due to shorter days, colder weather, and potential ice or snow on higher trails.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience here, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the car-free routes, the stunning natural beauty of the lochs and forests, and the sense of adventure found on the varied terrain. The well-maintained forestry tracks are frequently highlighted for their accessibility and scenic views.

Yes, the region is part of longer-distance networks. While this guide focuses on individual tours, parts of the National Cycle Network (NCN 7) and the John Muir Way offer sections suitable for gravel riding. Additionally, the Loch Venachar – Loch Venachar loop from Drymen provides a substantial 60km ride for those seeking a longer day out.

Absolutely! The Loch Lomond area is home to several beautiful waterfalls. You might encounter Inversnaid Falls or Arklet Waterfall, which are often near or accessible via the extensive trail network. Bracklinn Falls, though not directly on a listed route, is another notable waterfall in the wider Trossachs area.