The best MTB trails around Back
5.0
(1)
10
riders
5
rides
Mountain bike trails around Back are characterized by a diverse landscape that includes coastal paths, open moorland, and areas around historical sites. The region offers varied terrain, from relatively flat sections to routes with moderate elevation gain. Mountain biking here provides opportunities to explore the natural features and local points of interest. The area's trails are suitable for different skill levels, offering both easier rides and more challenging routes.
Best mountain bike trails around Back
- The most popular mountain bike…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
1
riders
9.68km
00:42
90m
90m
Explore the easy 6.0-mile mountain biking trail through Lews Castle Grounds, featuring woodlands, coastal views, and historic landmarks.
1
riders
73.8km
04:22
490m
490m
This 45.8-mile mountain bike loop from Stornoway to Arnol Blackhouse offers a moderate ride through open moorland and cultural sites.
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1
riders
52.9km
02:52
280m
280m
This moderate 32.9-mile mountain bike route from Stornoway to Carloway via Penthouse Road offers expansive moorland views and historical sit
5.0
(1)
5
riders
54.1km
03:00
380m
380m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
40.2km
02:19
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful castle with impressive rooms and gardens. The souvenir shop is worth a visit and there‘s also a Starbucks café inside!
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When you stop by don‘t miss the Harris Tweed exhibition on 1st floor by the Harris Tweed Authority!
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Lews Castle is a very impressive former stately home that now boasts function rooms, a cafe and accommodation too. Designed by architect Charles Wilson, the building dates back to 1851. The modern annex is the Museum nan Eilean Stornoway, where you can learn more about the archipelago's rich culture.
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A tip doesn't get any better if you keep writing the same words for about 40 "highlights" and add a lot of wrong pictures.
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The castle is now a hotel/holiday apartments, so you CANNOT tour it in its entirety! Non-residents, however, have access to the ground floor during the café's opening hours. Storehouse Cafe - Lews Castle https://share.google/fTN7Xzmct2DlACoXl Also located here is the highly recommended Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean https://share.google/hN2uyRJPYXvdC3RT3 Currently featuring 6 "Lewis Chessman" pieces as a special exhibition, highly recommended! There's also a souvenir shop with lots of Harris Tweed (prices like everywhere else), and you can admire the ballroom from the outside. That's it - I still found it extremely worthwhile!
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You cross the Carloway Stone Bridge: a sturdy 19th-century remnant, no longer a major function, but a dignified support for the old A858. Its heritage is so significant that it has been protected as a Category B monument since 1993.
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Rough world and fine tweed: the Outer Hebrides 👍
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Lews Castle is beautifully situated in parkland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Back?
There are 5 mountain bike trails listed in Back on komoot, offering a variety of experiences across coastal paths, open moorland, and historical sites.
What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain bike trails in Back?
The mountain bike trails in Back range from easy to moderate difficulty. You'll find 1 easy trail, such as the Lews Castle Grounds Trail, and 4 moderate trails, like the Stornoway to Arnol Blackhouse loop via Penthouse Road.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Back?
Yes, beginners can enjoy the Lews Castle Grounds Trail, which is an easy 6.0-mile (9.7 km) route exploring the historic grounds around Lews Castle.
What are the typical lengths of mountain bike trails in Back?
Trail lengths vary significantly. The shortest trail is the Lews Castle Grounds Trail at about 6 miles (9.7 km), while longer routes like the Stornoway to Arnol Blackhouse loop via Penthouse Road extend to nearly 46 miles (73.8 km).
Do mountain bike trails in Back feature significant elevation gain?
Yes, some trails in Back include notable elevation gain. For instance, the Stornoway to Arnol Blackhouse loop via Penthouse Road has an elevation gain of approximately 490 meters, connecting coastal towns and historical sites.
What can I see along the mountain bike trails in Back?
Many trails offer views of natural features and historical sites. For example, routes around Stornoway might pass by Lews Castle, the Fisherwoman Statue at Stornoway Harbour, or the Stornoway Town Hall. You might also encounter natural monuments like the Traigh Ghioradail Arch or scenic coastal cliffs and rock formations.
When is the best time of year for mountain biking in Back?
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, outdoor activities in regions with diverse landscapes like Back are generally best enjoyed during milder weather. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts before planning your ride, especially given the coastal and moorland characteristics of the area.
Are there any highly-rated loop trails for mountain biking in Back?
Yes, the Stornoway to Arnol Blackhouse loop via Penthouse Road is a popular moderate loop trail, connecting coastal towns and historical sites. Another option is the Lews Castle – Lochs of Mòinteach Leòdhais loop from Stornoway.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about mountain biking in Back?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Mountain bikers often praise the diverse landscape, which includes coastal paths, open moorland, and routes connecting historical landmarks, offering varied terrain for different skill levels.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks accessible by mountain bike in Back?
Absolutely. Many routes in Back integrate historical sites. For example, the Lews Castle Grounds Trail explores the area around Lews Castle. Other trails might lead you past sites like the Steinacleit Prehistoric Site or the Brue Stone Circle.
Is parking available at the trailheads in Back?
While specific parking details for each trailhead are not provided, routes often start or pass through towns like Stornoway, where public parking facilities are typically available. For routes exploring specific landmarks, parking might be available nearby.
Are there any trails that offer views of coastal cliffs and rock formations?
Yes, the region is known for its coastal features. You can find trails that offer views of coastal cliffs and rock formations, such as those that pass by the View of Coastal Cliffs and Rock Formations highlight.
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