Winter gravel ride through the forests of Aberfoyle
7 people attending
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👀 Join us for a gravel cycle through the forest of Aberfoyle - the tourist board is trying to call this area Gravelfoyle, a bit of a clunky pun, but gives you an idea of the options available! This route is from a great book on gravel rides around Scotland and is in two loops, so we can do one or both, depending on weather and legs! The first loop is around 40km, undulating but not too hilly. The second loop has a big climb at the start and is about another 20km.
↔️ The first loop is in Loch Ard forest, west of Aberfoyle. We head south west for the first part, then loop round towards Loch Chon and then Loch Ard to then return to Aberfoyle. The second loop follows the Dukes Pass north, then loops around Loch Drunkie and Loch Achray, before descending back to Aberfoyle.
The routes through the forest are mainly used for logging, so whilst they tend to be fairly wide and well maintained, there is always the risk of them becoming quite muddy and lumpy at points, so a decent off-road bike with good tyres and brakes is needed.
🚲 There are a number of bike hire places, for example https://aberfoylebikehire.co.uk/
There are lots of options for food and snacks in Aberfoyle itself, but nothing out on the trails so you will need to be self sufficient.
THIS EVENT MAY BE CANCELLED IF THE WEATHER FORECAST IS LOOKING REALLY BAD!
🚴♂️ Want to do more rides? See the Mtb/Off-Road calendar
🌈 New to mountain biking? Read our full guide on gay mountain biking groups
📣 From the area? Join the Mountain Bikers up North WhatsApp group
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IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete the Cycling Participation Statement in addition to booking your event space before attending a cycling event.
Photo Credits: Taken by Andrew. OutdoorLads have permission to use these photos.
What to bring
- A good quality mountain bike or gravel bike.
- At least one spare inner tube, tyre levers and pump for your bike. Make sure it's the correct type and size. Plus any special tools your bike needs.
- Clothing: choose suitable clothes and footwear for the weather forecast and time of year. You will be exercising so lightweight layered clothing is best, but bring plenty of layers as it is likely to be cold. Shorts or close-fitting trousers are best even in rain, as they allow free movement of your legs. Jeans are useless if it rains but tracksuit bottoms need to be not too baggy or they may snag in the chain and cause an accident. You'll need flat soled trainers for standard pedals. Warm gloves are essential!
- Cyclist's Helmet - Outdoorlads policy asks you to wear a helmet to events
- Bag you will need a small day-sack to carry essential additional warm clothing, water and an emergency snacks.
- A change of clothing, towel etc for when we finish as you'll probably be covered in mud when we finish!
- A bike light is a good idea as there is a small amount of road riding
Any questions, please ask the leader
Food & drink
Please bring substantial amounts of water (at least 1.5 litres) and snacks. There will not be anywhere to buy food or drink whilst in the forest, but the first loop ends at Aberfoyle which has a number of options for cafes and a large co-op.