The best traffic-free bike rides around Loch Dee
4.8
(12)
550
riders
10
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Loch Dee traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous freshwater lochs within the Galloway Forest Park. The terrain features a mix of hardpack and gravel forestry roads, alongside some paved sections, offering varied surfaces for cyclists. The area includes rugged granite hills and ancient woodlands, providing a scenic backdrop for cycling. This region is part of the River Dee's journey, which flows eastward from the loch.
Best no traffic touring…
Last updated: August 8, 2026
259
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
118km
09:22
1,480m
1,480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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5.0
(1)
9
riders
24.9km
02:02
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
9
riders
18.4km
01:46
360m
360m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(3)
26
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Loch Dee
Tips from the Community
I’ve seen this bothy on YouTube via:#thehappyhippie & a few others & although I won’t be lucky enough to visit myself my adventurous seester just might so would like some more info. I’ve seen some, what one hiker called, “poltergeist” activity caught on video. Strange activity has been reported ranging from: anxious feelings overnight caused by noises that make the visitor feel like someone else might be arriving all the way up to furniture actually moving on its own but it seems like the level of activity you get depends on the weather &/or your beliefs since the people hearing noises didn’t really claim to be “believers” but the ones who saw furniture moving most definitely were + there was a furious storm raging outside making it an even harder choice for leaving & getting soaked or staying & getting scared, lol. Not trying to poke fun or anything but should me seester decide to explore that area again I’m pretty sure it’s something she’d be interested in so would like some more info about the shepherd who built it or if perhaps there’s any “local” type of story that might give a potential reason for the things people have actually caught on camera?!? Regardless I’d like to thank everyone for sharing whatever you can since this is how we, as siblings, tend to spend time together… I do the research and she enjoys the travel & if you knew us growing up you’d have thought it be the other way around but life doesn’t always go as you’d hoped but I will say this much, as both of us are avid believers in the idea that just because it’s unexplainable doesn’t make it impossible & paranormal is possible because in this life we’ve learned one thing for certain & that is that at the end of the day… “stranger things have happened!” Thanks again for sharing & remember: Bsmart+Bsafe=Bhappy!! TTFN ✌🏼
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1
The Twister is a popular red graded singletrack trail within Kirroughtree Forest. It's about 0.5 miles (1km) and slightly uphill overall.
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There is a good car park at Clatteringshaws by the Loch of the same name but sadly the Visitor Cenre and Toilets are now permanently closed. This is a good place to visit Bruce's Stone (One of many) and for walks up Benniguinea and Cairnsmore.
1
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This well constructed gravel track feels a million miles from civilisation, and the views over loch and mountain are superb
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Great food, showers available and BreakPad bike shop next door is ace.
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Please consult the large notice board at the trailhead. This is a commercial forest and currently, timber harvesting is taking place along the southern flank of the Loch (hence tha barriers encountered by abp1). There are diversions in place to avoid the southern flank, rerouting via the north shore. This is detailed on the notice board. Also, please be aware that this is not an official MTB route, and taking a bike along it is not a good idea since the trail will have walkers of all abilities along its length, most of whom will not be expecting MTBs at all.
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We tried to do this tour on June 21, 2023, but had to cancel. After approx. 13 km you come out of the forest into a wide valley. The landscape is very beautiful, but the path is destroyed by a large number of watercourses and you have to dismount every few meters. After that, the path is obstructed by massive willow barriers with barbed wire. The route would have to be laid out differently, otherwise this tour is not recommended.
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1
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available around Loch Dee?
There are 10 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Loch Dee featured in this guide. These routes range in difficulty from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no traffic touring cycling routes around Loch Dee?
The routes around Loch Dee feature a varied terrain, primarily consisting of hardpack and gravel forestry access roads. While some sections may be paved, be prepared for unpaved or potentially muddy and boggy segments, especially after rain. The landscape includes rolling hills, forests, and glens.
What type of bicycle is best suited for these no traffic routes?
Given the varied terrain, which includes gravel and hardpack forestry roads, a gravel bike, CX bike, hardtail mountain bike, or a robust touring bike would be ideal. These bikes offer the durability and tire clearance needed to comfortably navigate the different surfaces.
Are there any circular no traffic touring cycling routes in the Loch Dee area?
Yes, several circular routes are available. For example, the challenging Otter Pool on Raiders Road – Loch Dee loop from Palnure Burn covers 117 km, offering extensive views. A moderate option is the Polske Bothy – White Laggan Bothy loop from Clatteringshaws Dam, which is 24.9 km long.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Loch Dee?
The best time to visit for touring cycling is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy or icy. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer midges.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic cycling options around Loch Dee?
While many routes are rated moderate to difficult, the Galloway Forest Park, where Loch Dee is located, offers various forest roads and trails that can be adapted for family cycling. For specific family-friendly routes, look for shorter, less elevated sections, or consider the visitor centers as starting points for easier loops.
Can I bring my dog on the no traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Loch Dee and within the Galloway Forest Park. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to clean up after them. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions.
What kind of wildlife might I see while cycling around Loch Dee?
The Galloway Forest Park is rich in wildlife. Cyclists often spot red deer, otters, and various bird species, including red kites. The diverse habitats, from mountains and moorland to lochs and woodlands, support a wide array of flora and fauna.
Are there facilities like cafes or visitor centers along the routes?
Key facilities are available at visitor centers such as Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre and Glentrool Visitor Centre. These offer opportunities to refill water bottles and find refreshments. However, many routes are remote, so it's advisable to carry sufficient supplies, including water and snacks.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Loch Dee?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the quiet and traffic-free nature of the routes, and the opportunity to experience the wild beauty of the Galloway Forest Park.
Where can I park my car to access the no traffic cycling routes around Loch Dee?
Access points with parking are available at various locations around Loch Dee and within the wider Galloway Forest Park. Popular starting points include visitor centers like Clatteringshaws Dam, which is a good base for routes such as the Clatteringshaws Dam – View of Clatteringshaws Loch loop.
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