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United Kingdom
Scotland
South Scotland
Scottish Borders

Ettrick And Yarrow

The best MTB trails around Ettrick And Yarrow

4.4

(124)

7,116

riders

177

rides

Mountain biking around Ettrick And Yarrow offers a diverse landscape of rolling hills, forested valleys, and tranquil lochs, providing varied terrain for riders. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, with numerous trails winding through woodlands and alongside rivers. Riders can expect a mix of gravel paths, singletrack, and forest roads, catering to different skill levels.

Best mountain bike trails around Ettrick And Yarrow

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Newark Castle Ruins – Selkirk Mini Pump Track…

Last updated: April 26, 2026

18

riders

#1.

View of the Three Brethren – Corbylinn Road loop from Selkirk

42.9km

04:45

1,350m

1,350m

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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Hard

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Paulien / Outdoor Inspiratie
December 13, 2025, St Mary's Loch

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.

Translated by Google

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stunning views 👍

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David Irving
May 22, 2024, Glen Cafe

Nice cafe over looking St Mary's Loch

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Dirty Wknd
October 25, 2023, Craig Hill

At 380 metres high, Craig Hill isn't a massive beast of a climb, but it can be quite technical thanks to the possibility of downed trees.Be careful on the paths and definitely don't head up here in very high winds. The trails and view are great if the weather is good.

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Good trail with some technical sections and a great view over the Tweed Valley.

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İlknur
October 12, 2023, St Mary's Loch

Stunning place, take a break and enjoy the view. PS: check out the house (like a castle) near the loch, I was so jealous about the people who live there!

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Newark Castle is a large ruined tower. It was first mentioned in 1423 and was packed back to the Crown in 1445 from the Earls of Douglas, and became one of only two royal castles in the Middle March. In 1645, after the Battle of Philiphaugh, one hundred prisoners were killed in the courtyard here, and Cromwell's troops occupied it in 1650. There's quite a lot of history here!

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Fabulous views from up here; one of the most amazing views from a hill in the Scottish Borders - panoramic splendour anywhere you look! If you are wondering why there are three cairns here, these were put in the 1500s to mark the meeting of the estate lands belonging to the lairds of Selkirk, Philliphaugh and Yair.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are there in Ettrick And Yarrow?

Ettrick And Yarrow offers a wide selection of mountain biking opportunities, with over 180 routes available on komoot. These range from easy forest tracks to challenging singletrack descents, catering to various skill levels.

Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Ettrick And Yarrow?

Yes, Ettrick And Yarrow has 21 easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes typically feature gentler gradients and less technical terrain, often following forest roads or well-maintained paths.

What are some family-friendly mountain bike trails in Ettrick And Yarrow?

For families, look for the 'easy' graded trails which are generally less technical and shorter. While specific family-designated trails aren't listed, routes with minimal elevation gain and smooth surfaces are ideal. Consider exploring sections of the forest roads around Bowhill Estate for a gentler experience.

Where can I find advanced mountain biking routes in Ettrick And Yarrow?

Advanced riders will find 76 difficult mountain bike trails in Ettrick And Yarrow. These often feature significant elevation changes, technical descents, and challenging terrain. An example is the Loch of the Lowes – St Mary's Loch loop from St Mary's Loch, which covers 47 km with over 1100 meters of ascent.

What are the best times of year for mountain biking in Ettrick And Yarrow?

The best time for mountain biking in Ettrick And Yarrow is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and trails are drier. While some trails are accessible year-round, winter conditions can bring mud, ice, and shorter daylight hours, requiring more caution.

Are there any good loop mountain bike trails in Ettrick And Yarrow?

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Ettrick And Yarrow are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Popular loop options include the moderate Loch of the Lowes – St Mary's Loch loop from Cacra Hill, which is 30.5 km long, and the Duchess Drive Gravel Climb – Gravel Descent Trail loop from Bowhill House.

What kind of views can I expect on mountain bike trails in Ettrick And Yarrow?

Mountain biking in Ettrick And Yarrow offers diverse and scenic views, ranging from rolling hills and forested valleys to tranquil lochs. Many trails provide panoramic vistas, such as those found on the View of the Three Brethren – Newark Castle Ruins loop from Selkirk, which passes through picturesque landscapes and historical sites.

What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails?

The region's trails often pass by historical sites and natural beauty spots. You can encounter landmarks like the Newark Castle Ruins on routes such as the Newark Castle Ruins – Selkirk Mini Pump Track loop from Selkirk. For stunning viewpoints, consider trails near Dun Rig Summit or White Coomb Summit.

Are there dedicated bike parks or specific mountain biking centers nearby?

Yes, Ettrick And Yarrow is close to several dedicated mountain biking facilities. You can find bike parks like Glentress Mountain Bike Centre and the Innerleithen XC Trail, which offer purpose-built trails and amenities for mountain bikers.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about Ettrick And Yarrow?

The mountain biking experience in Ettrick And Yarrow is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 130 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills and forested valleys to scenic lochs, and the mix of gravel paths, singletrack, and forest roads suitable for various skill levels.

How long do mountain bike trails typically take in Ettrick And Yarrow?

Trail durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. For example, a moderate 12.3 km route like the Duchess Drive Gravel Climb – Gravel Descent Trail loop from Bowhill House might take around 1 hour 16 minutes, while a longer, more challenging 47 km trail could take upwards of 4 hours 30 minutes.

Are there options for parking at the trailheads in Ettrick And Yarrow?

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not listed, many popular starting points for trails in Ettrick And Yarrow, especially those near towns like Selkirk or estates like Bowhill, typically offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check individual route descriptions on komoot for specific parking information.

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