4.8
(76)
4,146
riders
8
rides
Mountain biking around Blackhouse Forest in the Scottish Borders offers a diverse landscape of woodland and heather hills within the Yarrow Valley. The area features varied terrain, including scenic glens and lochans, providing a rich environment for exploration. Trails range from gentle paths to challenging routes with significant elevation changes. This region is known for its natural features, making it suitable for mountain biking.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
3
riders
37.6km
03:04
710m
720m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
49.9km
04:41
1,120m
1,120m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5
riders
47.0km
04:30
1,110m
1,110m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
18.7km
01:09
200m
200m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
22.3km
02:25
760m
760m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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In calm weather, the loch is a beautiful, mirror-like feature nestled between low hills. Swimming is potentially dangerous because the water level is regulated and cold undercurrents develop. On the shore is the basic but pleasant Tibbie Shiels Inn campsite. Across the road is a bikers' café where hikers are also welcome.
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Heading North, the climb is great - very steep but a decent surface - but the descent is not fun without suspension. Lots of dried cow hoofprints and grassy knolls when I did it
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The A708 follows the northern shore of St Mary's Loch, the largest natural body of water in the Scottish Boarders. It's an A road and people do drive fast, but it's never that busy, so It's a fun ride with great views. The loch takes its name from the chapel that once stood on the northern shore. The chapel has gone, but the graveyard remains.
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A fast downhill with some sharp corners, your brakes should be red hot by the time you reach the bottom.
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Beautiful loch and there's a cafe nearby.
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Nice cafe over looking St Mary's Loch
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A viewing point of the Tweedale area. You can see for many miles from this small car park location.
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There are 9 mountain bike trails around Blackhouse Forest, offering a range of experiences from easy to difficult. The komoot community has explored these routes over 5000 times.
The trails around Blackhouse Forest cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 5 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and experienced mountain bikers seeking a challenge.
Yes, there is an easy mountain bike trail available. Consider the Manor Sware Viewpoint – Old Manor Bridge loop from Whitelaw Hill, which is 11.6 miles (18.7 km) long and features gentler terrain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
Blackhouse Forest offers a diverse landscape for mountain biking, characterized by woodland paths, heather hills, and scenic glens. You'll encounter varied terrain, including sections with significant elevation changes, and routes that pass by tranquil lochans and streams.
Yes, many of the trails are circular. For example, the St Mary's Loch – Loch of the Lowes loop from Yarrow Water is a popular moderate circular route. Another option is the more challenging Loch of the Lowes – St Mary's Loch loop from St Mary's Loch, which also forms a loop.
The mountain bike trails in Blackhouse Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 70 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the sense of seclusion, and the variety of routes that cater to different abilities.
For those seeking challenging climbs and rewarding views, the Loch of the Lowes – St Mary's Loch loop from Whitelaw Hill is a difficult 31.0 miles (49.9 km) route that features significant ascents and offers expansive vistas across the landscape of the Scottish Borders.
Blackhouse Forest is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see a stunning lochan (small lake), various streams and ponds, and diverse terrain including woodlands and heather hills. The area is also committed to biodiversity, so you might spot local wildlife.
Absolutely. Several routes highlight the beautiful lochs. The St Mary's Loch – Loch of the Lowes loop from Yarrow Water is a prime example, taking you through the scenic lochs of the region.
The Scottish Borders, including Blackhouse Forest, offers year-round mountain biking. However, for the most pleasant conditions, spring and autumn often provide cooler temperatures and vibrant scenery. Be prepared for varied weather, as conditions can change quickly in the region.
Yes, experienced riders will find challenging options. The Ruined Stone Tower – Valley Path with Scenic View loop from Whitelaw Hill is a moderate to difficult 13.8 miles (22.3 km) route with significant elevation gain, offering a substantial ride.
Yes, the trails around Blackhouse Forest are known for their varied landscapes. You will ride through dense woodlands, across open heather hills, and along scenic glens, providing a constantly changing and engaging environment for your ride.


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