A rugged and remote ride through stunning Scottish scenery for experienced riders only. Expect singletrack, hike-a-bike and remote riding with some big climbs and descents along the way.
Start at Tyndrum Village Hall, go over the Lyon and Gaur river valleys onto a 10-mile singletrack around Ben Alder. From Fort Augustus weave north around the lochs to Contin near Strathpeffer to do the northern loop to Drumbeg with some hike-a-bike sections and climbing through the stunning Fisherfield Forest, a push up Glen Affric and the final hike up the Devil’s Staircase.
When to go: Late spring (for settled weather and before midge season). Avoid in the winter or the height of stag stalking season between August and October (but runs from 1st July to 15th February.
Website: Highland Trail 550
More info: Bikepacking.com
Route type: Long Distance Circular