The best traffic-free bike rides around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve

There are 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes available in the vicinity of Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve, all designed for race bikes. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate challenges, ensuring there's something for various skill levels.

The routes primarily utilize sections of the National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 75, which is largely traffic-free and often built on disused railway lines, providing a smooth, three-meter-wide tarmac track. You'll experience varied terrain, from exposed moorland around Blackridge with scenic views to more developed and wooded sections, and lowland moor. Some routes, like the The Knock Climb – Hay Hill loop from Bathgate, also feature moderate climbs.

Yes, there is one easy no-traffic road cycling route. The Picnic Area at Hillend Loch – Caldercruix Cycleway loop from Caldercruix is a great option, covering approximately 20.5 km with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.

The routes vary in length, offering options for different preferences. The shortest easy route is around 20.5 km, while moderate routes range from approximately 23.7 km to 54.5 km. For example, the Railway Track View – Caldercruix Cycleway loop from Armadale is one of the longer options at about 54.5 km.

Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve itself is a unique lowland raised bog, offering an 'oasis of open windswept moors.' You can dismount and explore a short circular boardwalk that takes you into the heart of the reserve, where you'll find sculptures depicting local species. The reserve is home to diverse flora like sphagnum mosses, heather, and bog cotton, as well as wildlife such as red grouse, curlew, and roe deer. For more information on the reserve, you can visit Visit West Lothian or Wikipedia.

While the guide doesn't specify direct public transport links to the reserve's entrance, the area is connected to National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 75, which spans from Glasgow to Edinburgh. Cyclists can potentially use public transport to reach towns along NCN 75 in West Lothian, such as Armadale or Blackridge, and then cycle to the reserve. For detailed public transport information, it's best to check local bus or train schedules.

Yes, Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve has a car park, which serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the reserve and accessing nearby cycling routes. Many of the routes also start from towns like Blackridge, Armadale, or Caldercruix, where public parking may be available.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience around Blawhorn Moss, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility, the smooth, traffic-free surfaces of the NCN 75 sections, and the unique natural beauty of the surrounding moorland and bog landscapes.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are circular loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, making planning your ride straightforward. Examples include the Caldercruix Cycleway – Dog Walk Around Town loop from Blackridge and the Railway Track View – Caldercruix Cycleway loop from Caldercruix.

The region offers varied experiences throughout the year. Early summer and autumn are particularly scenic, with bog cotton displaying fluffy white heads. The open views of the heaths can also be stunning when covered in snow during winter, though conditions will be colder. Generally, spring to autumn provides the most comfortable cycling weather. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Given that many sections are traffic-free and utilize wide, tarmac paths, some routes are suitable for families. The easy route, Picnic Area at Hillend Loch – Caldercruix Cycleway loop from Caldercruix, is a good starting point for families due to its shorter distance and minimal elevation. However, always consider the distance and your family's cycling ability before embarking on a longer route.