Balblair

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Local Alert

A trail notice is in effect

Open with diversions:
Diversion at exit of Cardie Hill Climb (post 10) rejoining at exit of Cool Runnings (post 12)
Short diversion at the start of Matrix over rough ground to bypass large fallen tree
The Pie Run is currently closed for renovation work (7 days/week). We're doing some updates to the trail line with the Trailfairies. Reopening by the end of November 2025.
The final part of Smells Like Tweed Spirit is currently closed for maintenance/rebuild work (7 days/week) with a diversion via the final part of Turn and Burn

Last updated: SHOW SAVE DATE

Directions

Getting here

The turn-off for Glentress is well signposted on the north side of the A72 between Peebles and Innerleithen.

Get directions to Page Name

Public transport

Buses between Aviemore and the Cairngorm Mountain ski centre pass Loch Morlich. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland. Get directions

Local Message

Accessible parking spaces

Blue Badge holders park free. Please display your Blue Badge clearly.

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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.

Visitor information

Facilities

Mountain biking
Viewpoint
Walking
Parking
Picnic area
Highland

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.

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 directions

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 directions

Walking trails

Balblair route card (PDF)

Lower Green Route

Discover great views over the Tweed Valley on this accessible path around Glentress. The Multi-user Trail connects the Glentress Gateway to the café, bike shop, skills area, taster trails and the start of all walking and mountain biking routes.

Mostly wide, smooth and flat gravel surface. Some uneven gravel sections, with potentially muddy areas. Short moderate slopes and one steep ramp. Includes two road crossings.

The Douglas fir trees on ‘Dougie Bank’, just above the ponds, are nearly 100 years old. Some of the trees from this part of the forest now sail the high seas as masts on tall ships. Douglas fir from Glentress has also been used to build the café and toilet block at Glentress Peel.

A trail notice is in effect

Open with diversions:
Diversion at exit of Cardie Hill Climb (post 10) rejoining at exit of Cool Runnings (post 12)
Short diversion at the start of Matrix over rough ground to bypass large fallen tree
The Pie Run is currently closed for renovation work (7 days/week). We're doing some updates to the trail line with the Trailfairies. Reopening by the end of November 2025.
The final part of Smells Like Tweed Spirit is currently closed for maintenance/rebuild work (7 days/week) with a diversion via the final part of Turn and Burn

Last updated: Monday, 24 February 2025

Grade - Easy 1 ¼ miles / 2.2 km

Grade - Black: Severe

Expect a long and steep climbs, descents, and jumps. Numerous hazards including drop-offs and severe features. Rapid rate of surface change. Commitment required.

Cycling trails

Mountain biking trails

Balblair mountain biking route card (PDF)

Activities

Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Feel free to get in touch with us using the details below, alternatively contact us through our dedicated page

Email

enquiries.north@forestryandland.gov.scot

Phone

0300 067 6100 (option 2)

More contact information

Local alerts

The following notices are in effect at this location.

During June and July 2025 we’ll be continuing more maintenance work on the bike trails. Trails will mostly stay open with brief delays passing through work areas but some closures will be needed at times. Please follow all safety signage and instructions from the trail crews.

What you need to know before you go

Last updated: Monday, 24 February 2025
During June and July 2025 we’ll be continuing more maintenance work on the bike trails. Trails will mostly stay open with brief delays passing through work areas but some closures will be needed at times. Please follow all safety signage and instructions from the trail crews.

What you need to know before you go

Last updated: Monday, 24 February 2025

Active notices

Live harvesting

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