Touring Loch Ness and Inverness mountain biking is a thrilling way to see the area. See more in a day than walking, and visit areas you can’t reach by car. Up hills and along forest paths, it’s a thrilling ride that takes you along the loch’s banks and through beautiful Highland towns and villages.
The Loch Ness 360˚ trail is one of the newest outdoor trails in Scotland, and has been planned out so that it is as accessible to mountain bikers. There are just a few minor tweaks to make to the standard walking trail to ensure safety for all.
For convenience, the trail is split into 6 sections. On mountain bike, we recommend following two sections per day to get the most out of your trip. This means it can be done over a long weekend, or over a few days throughout the year. Just pick a couple of sections that take your fancy and ride! The best thing is, the trails change so much throughout the year from spring to winter that doing them at different times can feel like completely different rides.
We’ve written a full description and overview of sections all the routes, but below highlights some of the changes you will need to make on a mountain bike.
LN360˚ Sections 1 & 2
If you plan on starting the trail from Inverness, you’ll take the route of the Great Glen Way. Opened in 2002, Scottish Natural Heritage designated it as one of Scotland’s Great Trails. It’s a stunning route, and you will begin it in front of Inverness Castle. You’ll cross the Caledonian Canal and cycle away from Inverness and towards Loch Ness.
As you continue cycling, Inverness will fade into the distance. You will head along towards Drumnadrochit. Follow the guidance on the section 1 route as written – there are no changes required for mountain bikers.
Section 2 does require a modification. After you set off from Drumnadrochit, you will head towards Invermoriston. At stage 3, we advise mountain bike users to select the Great Glen Way low route here.
LN360˚ Sections 3 & 4
On the second day of the trail, you will begin in the lovely village of Invermoriston. There is a Thomas Telford bridge here that is worth a look before you set off. Follow the trail set out in the main section. The only amendment here is on your way to Fort Augustus, take the alternative low-level route. Just use the signage for Great Glen Way low route.
Section 4 of the trail starts in Fort Augustus. It’s worth spending some time in Fort Augustus – there are some excellent pubs serving terrific local food. You can watch the canal activity as you eat. Once re-stocked, you can continue up towards Foyers. There is a part of Loch Ness 360˚ trail between Inverfarigaig and Foyers which is not suitable for cyclists. The alternate route is via Glen Lia (Gleann Liath).
LN360˚ Sections 5 & 6
On the final leg of this Loch Ness 360˚ cycle trail, you will begin your day in Foyers. This is a great spot to get in some Nessie hunting! Once you start your journey, continue along towards Dores. There is an alternative route here that is suitable for cyclists. Take the low-level alternative between Torbreck Woods and Dores, and not the route over Drumashie Moor. The best route for mountain bikes can be taken by following the cycle route at the side of the B862 to Scaniport (Sustrans Route 78).
In Section 6, simply enjoy the trip all the way back to Inverness as described – no alterations, no amendments, just some excellent trail riding!
We hope you love your time around Loch Ness and Inverness mountain biking. Remember to stay in touch and let us know of any problems, hidden gems or excellent service you get. And share your photos with us on Facebook and Instagram – we love seeing them!