The best gravel rides around Dulnain Bridge
4.6
(45)
425
riders
36
rides
Gravel biking around Dulnain Bridge offers diverse landscapes within the Cairngorms National Park, characterized by well-maintained trails and varied terrain. The region features extensive Caledonian pine forests, picturesque woodlands, and views of the River Spey and the majestic Cairngorms. Many paths consist of good gravel tracks and wide forest trails, providing a blend of challenging and leisurely routes suitable for various fitness and skill levels.
Best gravel bike trails around Dulnain Bridge
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Ryvoan Bothy – Loch Morlich loop from Nethy Bridge, a 22.9 miles (36.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 5 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers scenic views through woodlands and past Loch Morlich.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Old Logging Way Gravel Path – Aviemore to Glenmore Trail loop from Boat of Garten, a moderate 17.8 miles (28.6 km) path. This route follows a well-known gravel path connecting Aviemore to Glenmore, suitable for most skill levels.
- Local gravel bikers also love the The Dava Way – Dava Summit 1052 loop from Grantown-on-Spey, a 45.8 miles (73.7 km) trail leading through varied terrain including sections of the historic Dava Way, often completed in about 7 hours 1 minute.
- Gravel biking around Dulnain Bridge is defined by Caledonian pine forests, the River Spey, and ancient glacial rock formations, with routes offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Dulnain Bridge are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 400 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Dulnain Bridge's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
4.8
(12)
84
riders
36.8km
02:25
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
27
riders
75.1km
06:02
580m
580m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
26
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
9
riders
32.9km
02:17
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
30
riders
19.4km
01:12
100m
100m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
National Cycle Network Route Marker / Milepost 995 is located at the edge of the cycle path. There are four Millennium Milepost designs - this one was designed by Jon Mills. Over 1,000 Millennium Mileposts were installed, stretching to all corners of the UK and Scotland, some as far north as the Shetland Islands.
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A very popular pub in Aviemore. At weekends and during holidays book several days ahead for dinner. Large outdoor area if the weather is good. Great food and drinks.
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Fine bike and walking patch, gently twisting up and down, fun to ride.
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It's a popular spot, and rightly so, with such a beautiful beach and lake. Besides swimming, stopping for the view is also worthwhile. You'll also find several restaurants and cafes nearby, such as the Boat House café and the Allt Mor café.
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The Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Center and the adjacent Allt Mor Café were a wonderful stop after our overnight stay a little further on at the Ryvoan Bothy. After a mediocre breakfast that we brought with us to the bothy, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast and good coffee.
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Picturesque little lake at the foot of a rock face. A nice place to stop and enjoy the view or even take a dip in the refreshing water.
3
1
The Ryvoan Bothy is an authentic and, above all, small bothy. Because it's also relatively close to a large parking lot and visitor center for Glenmore Forest Park, and the path to it is easy to walk and cycle, it's likely to be crowded. Therefore, it wasn't my favorite during my cycling trip through the Cairngorms, but it does offer excellent accommodations with a few sleeping places, a table and chairs, and a stove.
3
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I found this gently climbing and undulating gravel road through the forest a great pleasure to cycle. I was shocked by the elevation gain on the map, but in practice, the gravel path proved to be easy to ride and also very beautiful.
3
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Dulnain Bridge?
Dulnain Bridge offers a wide selection of gravel biking routes, with over 40 trails available for exploration. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for everyone.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Dulnain Bridge?
The terrain around Dulnain Bridge is incredibly diverse, featuring extensive Caledonian pine forests, picturesque woodlands, and views of the River Spey and the majestic Cairngorms. You'll primarily find good gravel tracks and wide forest trails, with minimal road riding, making it ideal for gravel bikes. Some routes also pass by ancient glacial rock formations and offer riverside riding along the River Dulnain.
When is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Dulnain Bridge?
The Cairngorms National Park, including Dulnain Bridge, is beautiful year-round. However, for the most comfortable gravel biking experience, late spring through early autumn (May to September) generally offers the best weather conditions with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of potentially colder, wetter, or even snowy conditions.
Are there gravel routes suitable for beginners or families in Dulnain Bridge?
Yes, Dulnain Bridge has several routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Dalfaber Road (NCN 7) loop from Boat of Garten is an easy 19.4 km route with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a relaxed ride. Many of the community paths in Dulnain Bridge itself, such as the Old Laundry Path or Riverside Path, are also suitable for leisurely cycling.
Are there challenging gravel biking routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like The Dava Way – Dava Summit 1052 loop from Grantown-on-Spey offer a more demanding experience. This difficult 73.7 km trail includes significant elevation gain and varied terrain, often taking around 7 hours to complete. Another challenging option is The Dava Way Cutting – The Dava Way loop from Grantown-on-Spey, a 32.9 km difficult route.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions I can see along the gravel bike trails?
Many gravel routes in the area offer stunning scenery. You can find viewpoints like Creag Liath or Loch Pityoulish. The region is also rich in natural features such as the ancient Curr Wood, known for its pine forests and unique flora, and the distinctive Roches Moutonnées glacial rock formations. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including red squirrels and various bird species.
Are there any notable historical sites or landmarks near the gravel biking routes?
Yes, the area around Dulnain Bridge is steeped in history. You might spot Piper's Stone, a historical site, or the Fairy Hill Cairn near Boat of Garten. Muckrach Castle, a restored 16th-century castle, is also visible from some local paths, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes around Dulnain Bridge?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Dulnain Bridge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Ryvoan Bothy – Loch Morlich loop from Nethy Bridge is a moderate 36.8 km circular trail offering scenic views through woodlands and past Loch Morlich.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about gravel biking in Dulnain Bridge?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of well-maintained gravel tracks and forest trails, and the sense of remoteness while still being accessible. The diverse landscapes, from Caledonian pine forests to riverside paths, are frequently highlighted as a major draw.
Are there options for long-distance gravel cycling routes in the area?
For those looking for longer rides, the region offers extensive options. The The Dava Way – Dava Summit 1052 loop from Grantown-on-Spey is a substantial 73.7 km route that utilizes sections of the historic Dava Way. The Speyside Way, an extensive trail, also offers long, scenic sections with good, smooth paths suitable for extended gravel rides.
Is public transport available to access gravel biking trailheads near Dulnain Bridge?
Dulnain Bridge benefits from good transport links within the Cairngorms National Park. While specific public transport options to every trailhead may vary, buses often connect villages like Dulnain Bridge, Aviemore, and Grantown-on-Spey, which are common starting points for many routes. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes that accommodate bicycles.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking routes in Dulnain Bridge?
Parking is generally available in and around Dulnain Bridge and nearby villages like Nethy Bridge, Boat of Garten, and Grantown-on-Spey, which serve as common starting points for many gravel routes. Look for designated car parks in village centers or at popular trailheads. Always ensure you park responsibly and respect local regulations.
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