The best gravel rides around Harlaw Reservoir

There are over 40 gravel bike trails to explore around Harlaw Reservoir and within the wider Pentland Hills area. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy spins to more challenging climbs.

Yes, Harlaw Reservoir offers several routes suitable for families. Many trails feature compacted gravel tracks and wider paths, particularly those connecting the reservoirs and sections of the Water of Leith Walkway. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' or 'moderate' for a more relaxed family outing.

The best time for gravel biking around Harlaw Reservoir is typically from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and trails are generally drier. However, the area can be ridden year-round, with appropriate gear for winter conditions.

Yes, there are several beginner-friendly options. Routes that stick to the reservoir-side paths and flatter sections of the Water of Leith Walkway are generally easier. For example, the Torduff Reservoir – Water of Leith Walkway loop from Balerno is a moderate route that connects multiple reservoirs and is a popular choice.

Parking is available at various points around Harlaw Reservoir and in nearby villages like Balerno and Curriehill, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific parking details are often included in individual route descriptions on komoot.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, the Pentland Hills offer more demanding routes with significant elevation changes. The Maidens Cleugh Climb – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Curriehill is a challenging 16.5-mile trail with substantial climbing, often taking nearly 4 hours to complete.

During winter, trails around Harlaw Reservoir can be muddy, icy, or covered in snow, especially at higher elevations in the Pentland Hills. Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures also need to be considered. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out and to be prepared with appropriate winter cycling gear.

Many of the gravel bike routes around Harlaw Reservoir are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Water of Leith Walkway – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Curriehill is a popular circular option exploring the area between the Water of Leith and Threipmuir Reservoir.

Gravel routes around Harlaw Reservoir offer diverse views, including serene reservoir landscapes, sections through woodlands, and expansive vistas across the open moorland of the Pentland Hills. You'll often see multiple reservoirs, including Harlaw, Threipmuir, and Glencorse, depending on your chosen route.

While Harlaw Reservoir itself is quite natural, you can find cafes and refreshment stops in nearby villages such as Balerno and Curriehill, which are common starting or ending points for many routes. Some routes also pass close to other amenities within the wider Pentland Hills area.

Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs are adjacent and often connected by gravel trails, offering similar terrain and scenic beauty within the Pentland Hills. Many routes, like the Yellow Brick Road MTB track – Balerno Hill Summit loop from Balerno, incorporate both reservoirs, allowing you to experience the distinct character of each while enjoying the interconnected network of paths.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the reservoirs and hills, and the well-maintained gravel tracks that make for an enjoyable ride. The network of paths connecting multiple points of interest is also a frequently highlighted feature.