The best gravel rides around Sandford/Upper Avondale
4.6
(95)
748
riders
25
rides
Gravel biking around Sandford/Upper Avondale offers a network of routes primarily characterized by open, rolling terrain, often featuring extensive wind farm landscapes. The region provides a mix of established tracks and paths suitable for gravel bikes, with some routes traversing areas around Whitelee Wind Farm. Elevation changes are present, contributing to varied ride profiles across the area.
Best gravel bike trails around Sandford/Upper Avondale
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Whitelee Visitor Centre & Café – Whitelee Wind Farm…
Last updated: November 3, 2026
4.6
(24)
191
riders
49.6km
03:00
570m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.9
(14)
144
riders
48.0km
02:46
470m
470m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.0
(4)
86
riders
45.4km
02:41
510m
510m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.5
(18)
39
riders
Easy gravel ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.8
(8)
43
riders
Easy gravel ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
I Live in nearby Eaglesham - On the Whitlees Gravel most weeks 👌. Still making new routes - So many options. Various Entry / Departure points. Get hold of their Map - Because 1 Turbine looks just the other Hundred and how many 😉🚴🏽♂️Frenchie
0
0
Whitelee - has a Brilliant selection of Gravel Cycling MTB 🚲. Living & 🚴🏽♂️🚴🏽♀️🚴 from Eaglesham it’s right on our back door ! . I have been utilising it’s many facilities for the last 3 to 4 Years. Nearly every week - Year round - So many options, hardly every 🚴 the exact same route twice !. TIP - One Wind Turbine looks like the rest - Pick up a Map !. Either at the Visitor Centre ( good 🥣🫖☕️🍰🥪👍) or at the Display Board @ Blde Display. Other options utilise the Ardochrig entrance/exit for EK/ Strathaven/ The Heron 🥣🍴☕️🫖🍰
0
0
P.S. The MTB trails up beside the Turbine 53. No great distance from Visitors Centre - Are a fun test of Bike skills - Expect Youngsters to be sharper at picking up the 🚲🚲skills + there are several shelters, Ideal for picnic ( Please -Just take your rubbish away
0
1
Based in Eaglesham This is really our 🚲 playground. Just so many options on great Gravel. Once you get beyond the fab LochGoin circuit - don’t expect to see (sometimes anyone ) many others . TIP ; Pick up a Windfarm map , available at either the Visitors Centre ( great Coffee ☕️, Soups, Eats and snacks & helpful staff) Similarly Kate, Fiona & Nick the Whitelee Rangers. If Centre/Rangers office closed there are maps at the Info board beside the Blade Display. Because believe me - even after Years of 🚲 around Whitelee - 1 turbine just looks the same as the Hundreds !. However they are all numbered and with the Map 👍. Hoping that 2025 there might be regular Cycle Meets - So watch this space 🤓.
0
0
The visitor centre and cafe at Whitelee are a super good visit location for you and the family. It is educational, interesting, and it has a great cafe. In fact, it is fascinating to hear about the UK’s largest onshore wind farm. You can also hire bicycles here if you want to ride around the rather large wind farm complex.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Sandford/Upper Avondale?
There are over 20 gravel bike trails in the Sandford/Upper Avondale area, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Sandford/Upper Avondale?
Yes, the region offers 5 easy gravel bike routes. A good option for beginners is the Whitelee Wind Farm – Whitelee Visitor Centre & Café loop from Queenseat Hill, which is about 9.9 miles (16.0 km) long and takes around 1 hour 5 minutes to complete.
Are there long-distance or advanced gravel cycling routes in Sandford/Upper Avondale?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, there are 9 difficult routes available. An example is the demanding The Heron Farm Shop & Café – Whitelee Wind Farm loop from Caldermill, covering over 45 km with significant elevation changes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Sandford/Upper Avondale?
The gravel bike trails in Sandford/Upper Avondale are primarily characterized by open, rolling terrain, often featuring extensive wind farm landscapes, particularly around Whitelee Wind Farm. You'll find a mix of established tracks and accessible paths.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the area?
Yes, many of the routes in Sandford/Upper Avondale are designed as loops. For instance, the popular Whitelee Visitor Centre & Café – Whitelee Windfarm loop from Queenseat Hill offers a circular ride through the wind farm.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Sandford/Upper Avondale?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 75 reviews. Riders often praise the expansive views across the wind farm landscape and the varied terrain suitable for different ability levels.
Are there any places to stop for refreshments along the gravel bike trails?
Yes, some routes incorporate stops. For example, the The Heron Farm Shop & Café – Whitelee Wind Farm loop from Caldermill starts near The Heron Farm Shop & Café, providing an opportunity for refreshments.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see near the gravel bike trails?
The region offers several points of interest. You can explore natural monuments like Cairn Table Summit Cairn or the ancient Cadzow Oaks. The Spine Road of Whitelee Wind Farm itself is a notable feature, offering unique views of the Whitelee Wind Turbines.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting while gravel biking?
While not explicitly highlighted for wildlife, the open, expansive landscapes of the wind farm areas often provide opportunities to observe local birdlife and other small animals in their natural habitat.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Sandford/Upper Avondale?
Many routes start from locations like Caldermill or Queenseat Hill, which typically offer parking facilities for visitors accessing the Whitelee Wind Farm trails. It's advisable to check specific starting points for detailed parking information.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Sandford/Upper Avondale?
The open nature of the terrain means it can be exposed to elements. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and good visibility. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for potential wind. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Most popular routes around Sandford/Upper Avondale
Most popular attractions around Sandford/Upper Avondale
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
