Monday, 06 March 2023
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Balblair
Where we are
Latest forest information
- The blue mountain bike trail is currently closed.
- The black mountain bike trail is diverted in place. Please follow all signage and stay on the approved route while there is machinery working in other areas of the forest.
- The walking trail is still open, but please be aware of machinery moving through the car park and forest roads.
Open water
- This destination contains areas of open water which can be hazardous if you are not suitably prepared. Follow our water safety advice and take care.
About
Wild mountain biking and peaceful forest walks
If you're looking for a mountain bike challenge, or peaceful walks to a pond where beasties lurk, this hidden gem is worth seeking out. You can explore its sunny forest glades and high rocky slabs on bike, foot or horseback. There's a sense of wild country on the tops, with views west and east over the hills, while deep in the forest you'll find sheltered clearings full of wildflowers and berries.
Walking trails
Walking
Pond Trail
A short climb through the pine forest to an enchanting little dipping pond.
Moderate climb to dipping pond. Narrow gravel path through trees to a wide forest road. No obstacles.
1 miles / 1.7 km
Allow ¾ hour
More information
Open forest glades let the sunshine in all the way to a pretty dipping pond. In summer these woodland clearings are home to butterflies and blueberries; in winter there are views to the snowy Struie hills.
Mountain biking trails
Balblair mountain biking route card (PDF)
Mountain Biking
Blue Trail (closed)
A trail notice is in effect
The blue trail is currently closed.
Soar through the trees on this twisting trail.
Mostly wide gravel paths with some loose sections and long, gentle to moderate slopes. Can be muddy when wet.
2 miles / 3.2 km
More information
An enjoyable quick blast through the trees for competent riders looking to improve their bike handling skills and an ideal warm up for experts attempting the Balblair Black. Work on your balance on the tight twisting sections, then let the good times roll on the smooth downhill Ceilidh Trail. Start at the second car park.
Mountain Biking
Black Trail (diverted)
A trail notice is in effect
The black trail is currently diverted. Please follow all signage and keep to the approved route while machinery is operating in the forest.
Top of the world rock slab.
Mostly loose gravel singletrack with sections of bare rock and boardwalk. Can be muddy and very steep in places.
4 ½ miles / 7.2 km
More information
A fun and memorable black with technical rock features and fast-flowing downhill. The full, lung-busting climb up Cnoc an Tionail (knock an tinnell - hillock of the gathering) gives you spectacular views before a rock slab descent down Candy Mountain that'll test even the most courageous! Start at the second car park. The route follows the Blue Trail at the start and finish.
Facilities and access
The nearest public toilets and café are less than a mile away in Bonar Bridge. You can hire bikes from shops in nearby Ardgay and Tain.
Car parking information
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
Getting here
Balblair is 1 mile north of Bonar Bridge on the A836 road to Lairg.
Using SatNav?
IV24 3EE is the nearest postcode, on the edge of Bonar Bridge.
Public transport
The nearest bus stop is in Bonar Bridge, 1 mile walk from the forest. If you have a bike, Ardgay train station is an easy 2 mile cycle away. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?
Phone
0300 067 6100 (option 2)
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