The best running trails around Feughside

Feughside offers a wide selection of over 35 running routes. These trails cater to various preferences, ranging from moderate to more challenging ascents, ensuring there's a suitable option for most runners.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain in Feughside. The region features serene riverside paths along the Rivers Dee and Feugh, challenging hill climbs to summits like Clachnaben and Scolty Hill, and refreshing forest routes through woodlands of birch, larch, and Scot's pine. Some higher routes may include boggy sections and light scrambling.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, areas like Scolty Hill near Banchory offer easily accessible paths suitable for various fitness levels. The Scolty Hill Summit – Scolty Tower loop from Banchory is a moderate option that provides excellent views and well-maintained paths, making it a good choice for families looking for a less strenuous run.

Many of Feughside's natural trails, particularly those through woodlands and along rivers, are suitable for running with dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.

Feughside's routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can encounter the dynamic Falls of Feugh, where salmon can be observed leaping. Higher routes lead to landmarks like the Clachnaben Summit and Granite Tor or Scolty Tower, both offering panoramic views of Royal Deeside and the surrounding countryside.

Yes, many of the running routes in Feughside are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Clachnaben Summit loop from Cormech and the moderate Scolty Hill Summit – Scolty Tower loop from Banchory, which are popular for their varied scenery and rewarding views.

Feughside offers enjoyable running experiences year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is ideal for longer runs, while winter can offer crisp, clear days, though some higher or less maintained trails might be boggy or require appropriate gear due to snow or ice.

Parking is generally available at common starting points for many routes. For instance, routes accessing Clachnaben often start near Smithy Wood, and Scolty Hill trails are accessible from Banchory. Specific parking details can usually be found on individual route descriptions.

The running routes in Feughside are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars from over 600 runners. Reviewers often praise the stunning scenery, the variety of terrain from riverside paths to challenging hill climbs, and the sense of immersion in nature found in this part of Royal Deeside.

Absolutely. Feughside is known for its significant hills that provide strenuous and rewarding running experiences. The Clachnaben Rocky Outcrop loop from Smithy Wood is a difficult 9.1 km trail with substantial elevation gain, leading to a distinctive granite tor with panoramic vistas. Another challenging option is the Charr Bothy – Charr Bothy loop from Smithy Wood.

Feughside is located within Royal Deeside, close to quaint villages like Strachan, Finzean, and Banchory. These areas offer various options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation, making it convenient to find refreshments or stay overnight near the running trails.

Yes, Feughside boasts extensive forestry trails and woodlands perfect for running. Areas like Perciemuir Wood near Finzean offer shaded and varied terrain through open woodland, featuring birch, rowan, larch, and Scot's pine, providing a rich natural environment for your run. The trails around Scolty Hill also include beautiful woodland sections.