From Invercauld Bridge to Balmoral Castle and Bealach Dearg loop – Cairngorms National Park
From Invercauld Bridge to Balmoral Castle and Bealach Dearg loop – Cairngorms National Park
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From Invercauld Bridge to Balmoral Castle and Bealach Dearg loop – Cairngorms National Park
03:33
39.0km
690m
Mountain biking
Embark on a moderate mountain biking adventure through the Cairngorms National Park, connecting Invercauld Bridge to the historic Balmoral Castle. This 24.2 miles (39.0 km) loop demands good fitness and advanced riding skills, featuring a mix of unpaved paths, gravel, and some asphalt sections. You will gain about 2257 feet (688 metres) in elevation, with the ride typically taking around 3 hours and 33 minutes to complete. Expect diverse Scottish Highland scenery, traversing ancient Scots pine forests where you might spot deer and red squirrels, and enjoying the serene atmosphere of the wider Balmoral Estate.
While the trail is classified as moderate, its requirement for advanced riding skills suggests you will encounter technical features beyond simple fire roads. The varied terrain necessitates confident bike handling, so be prepared for potentially challenging sections. Plan your visit during suitable weather conditions to fully appreciate the natural beauty and ensure a safe ride. Always check local conditions before heading out, as parts of the Cairngorms can be remote.
This route offers a unique opportunity to cycle within the vicinity of the royal Balmoral Estate, exploring some of the most scenic corners of this expansive area. A notable historical landmark along the way is the Old Bridge of Dee, dating back to 1753, which adds a layer of historical interest to your ride. The trail is perfect for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding experience that showcases the typical Highland landscape of the Cairngorms.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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694 m
Invercauld Bridge
Highlight • Historical Site
There are two bridges here, the Old Bridge of Dee which dates back to 1753 and built by Major Cauleild as part of the military road from Perthshire and then through the mountains to Speyside.
Around a century later this bridge was superseded which is thought to be due to Queen Victoria purchasing Balmoral in 1852. The old main road through Deeside ran along the south side of the river between Ballater and Braemar with the old bridge connecting to the military road. However the Queen had privacy concerns about the old south Deeside Rd thus the government approved the construction of. anew road built along the north bank of the river with the current bridge constructed to connect it to the old road into Braemar.
Tip by
6.76 km
Balmoral Estate Forest Track
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
10.6 km
Balmoral Castle
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
27.8 km
Glen Dearg Hunting Lodge
Highlight • Viewpoint
A beautiful and atmospheric place to stop.
Tip by
30.0 km
Bealach Dearg Pass
Highlight • Viewpoint
Fantastic views and a good surface
Tip by
36.3 km
Descent to Invercauld
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
39.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
31.3 km
5.48 km
1.64 km
584 m
Surfaces
31.3 km
7.05 km
398 m
141 m
119 m
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Elevation
Highest point (730 m)
Lowest point (280 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 21 May
15°C
9°C
33 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
This is ride no. 18 in Gravel Rides Scotland by Ed Shoote. I used a mountain bike and was glad I did although a gravel bike with at least 42mm tyres would do most of it comfortably. Huge climb up from Loch Builg goes up to 18% and, in parts, has been chewed up by vehicles making it impossible to ride. Fabulous descent from the top down to Invercauld. Part of the route near the end has been blocked off since the route was devised, so don't do the little spur you see on the map - stay on the forest track all the way back to the car park.