Your forests are fantastic places to explore by bike – and you don’t have to be a muddy mountain biker or Bradley Wiggins to enjoy them! Many tracks in our forests are ideal for leisurely cycle rides that the whole family will enjoy.

Find a forest for cycling

See more from the saddle

Exploring by bike is the perfect way to get a bit further afield and see more of the forest. Discover pretty picnic spots and stunning viewpoints, hidden history and surprising sculptures. Cycling is also a great way to spot wildlife, because you can travel more quickly and quietly than on foot.

Bring your bike or borrow one

Many of our forest tracks are ideal for leisure cycling on any type of bike, although you may find a mountain bike or hybrid bike more comfortable. You don’t need any special equipment but we do recommend you wear a helmet and gloves. If you don’t have your own bike, you can hire one at a number of our forest sites or nearby.

Forest favourites for family cycling

Here are some of our favourite forests for easy exploring by bike. If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging, head to our mountain biking section.

• Culbin, just east of Inverness: an enticing network of mostly flat tracks through this amazing seaside forest.
• Loch Ard, near Aberfoyle: glorious family-friendly loch side trails in Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, with wildlife and sculptures.
• Tentsmuir, just south of Dundee: magical trails through towering trees and rolling dunes – spot seals and red squirrels.
• Three Lochs Forest Drive, near Aberfoyle: glorious Trossachs views, picnicking and loch side beauty.
• Mull, Inner Hebrides: a host of rolling forest trails with stunning coastal views on an island renowned for its history and wildlife.
• Argyll Forest Park, West Highlands: trails through secluded glens and peaceful forests with breath-taking loch and hill views.

Find out more

• The forest cycling code