An awesome loop with an adventurous mountain crossing. The route features three beautiful glens and a big climb into the upper reaches of Glen Kendrum, followed by a sweeping descent of Gleann Dubh into Glen Dochart. This is wild mountain biking at its best.
At a glance
Description: clockwise
Distance: 21 km /13 miles
Ascent: 500m
Type: mountain bike circuit
Signage: partial signing with National Cycle Network 7 (NCN7)
Route description
From the car park at the top of Glen Ogle (OS Grid Ref. NN558 284), follow route NCN7 south for an easy downhill cruise through the stunning Glen Ogle with its spectacular viaduct, crags and forests. After 6.2km the track splits at Craggan – follow the Right branch, pass 3 metal gates until a small rail bridge. Take the Right turn immediately after the bridge, and head into Glen Kendrum.
The next 5km involves a big climb into the atmospheric upper sanctum and although never really steep or technical it’s tough going – keep spinning and enjoy the stunning scenery.
After passing under the dark and brooding crags of Creag Mac Rànaich (809m), the track enters a high summit col – a great place to refuel and psych-up for the descent. Buckle-up as the track now takes a fast and sinuous route for 4.6km down the valley, pick your line and watch out for the occasional stray boulder or rough section. After a picturesque river crossing, continue downhill to the derelict train bridge. Turn Right on the restored track and after 1km a Right fork – follow this track for 4km back to Lochan Lairig Cheilè and the car park.
Points of interest
Glen Ogle viaduct
Loch Earn
Glen Ogle, Glen Kendrum, Glen Dochart and Gleann Dubh
Facilities
Refreshments and accommodation are available in Crianlarich, Killin and Lochearnhead.
Local Trail Association
Balquhidder Trail Crew - Trails Association (www.balquhidder.info)Stats
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Distance13 miles
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Avg time3 hr 4 min
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Altitude min614 ft
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Altitude start947 ft
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Altitude end965 ft
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Climb1,739 ft
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Descent-1,722 ft
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Grade max-31%
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Grade min37.7%
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Distance climb5 miles
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Distance down5 miles
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Distance flat2 miles
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Details
- Featured
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Riding area
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Primary ActivityMountain Bike
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Other Activities
- E-Bike
- Gravel Bike
- Hike
- Trail Running
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Difficulty ratingRed
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Route TypeLoop
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Bike typeAM, XC, Fat, Gravel
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DirectionOne Direction
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Physical ratingHard
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Ridelogs
- Unknown
- Snow Groomed
- Snow Packed
- Snow Covered
- Snow Cover Partial
- Freeze/thaw Cycle
- Icy
- Prevalent Mud
- Wet
- Variable
- Ideal
- Dry
- Very Dry
The colour categories are based on what percentage of riders are riding a trail in its intended direction.
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- < 2 days
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- < 1 month
- < 6 months
- > 6 months
- Downhill Only
- Downhill Primary
- Both Directions
- Uphill Primary
- Uphill Only
- One Direction
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- By gav-s
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