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Gravel rides
United Kingdom
Scotland
South Scotland
Scottish Borders

Eildon And Leaderfoot

The best traffic-free bike rides in Eildon And Leaderfoot

3.5

(2)

49

riders

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Gravel biking in Eildon And Leaderfoot offers routes through a landscape shaped by the triple-peaked Eildon Hills and the River Tweed. The region features varied terrain, from the volcanic slopes of the Eildons to river valleys. Riders can expect a mix of forest tracks and quiet roads, providing diverse surfaces for gravel cycling. This area is known for its scenic beauty, offering routes that combine natural features with historical landmarks.

Best no traffic gravel bike trails in Eildon And Leaderfoot

Last updated: June 2, 2026

2.0

(1)

3

riders

#1.

Redbridge Viaduct – Caulshield Loch loop from Melrose

11.3km

00:54

210m

210m

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

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Traffic-free bike rides in Eildon And Leaderfoot

Traffic-free bike rides in Eildon And Leaderfoot

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Hiking Collection by

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Tips from the Community

Martin Davidson
October 10, 2024, Innerleithen XC Trail

The tarmac cycle path following the river Tweed from Glentress makes Innerleithen super accessible which in turn provides you with free range to pedal the ‘old’ XC & DH trails, it also provides easy access to the current ‘trendy’ gravity orientated hot spot of Golfie, named so, as it’s situated above the golf course. First off the Old XC, (starts from the carpark over the bridge by the river) it was very sad to see the current trashed & sorry state of what appears to be the forgotten XC Trail, after having ridden it many times since the early eighties! The long climb at the start is currently cut short & diverted with no access up to the top from what I could see? The remainder of the trails are just trashed with the mighty Caddon Bank DH a shadow of its former self. Golfie is an easy pedal across the village with some great coffee stop opportunities enroute. One in particular Findra on the high st deserves a Big shout out, it’s stylish, MTB rider (muddy bum) friendly, sells fantastic coffee & food has uber cool curated music. Oh it also sells very cool artisan made clothing. There are others in the village which all look fab but Findra was the one we stopped at. The Findra staff ride mountain bikes, are super friendly & great for local riding knowledge 😉👍 Golfie is a short pedal through the village towards the Golf club & then a longish pedal up a Forest road with ‘natural’ trails spilling off the side of the hill in varying degrees of difficulty. Be prepared for full on gnar, chunder, roots, very steep drop offs & lots n lots of muddy gloop if the weather has not been kind. No manicured trails here! If you keep pedalling you’ll eventually reach the old reservoir where the views are magnificent & several trail go off in several directions. My advice, if it’s your first time riding Golfie try & take someone who’s ridden it before as some of the trails start off very benign but then transform like Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde! Wear body armour that allows you to pedal, but all the same wear body armour😜👍

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Jade
October 7, 2024, River Tweed

Connecting the 7 staines. You can bike from Walkerburn, Innerleithen and Glentress on this path.

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Pie shop is a must to visit!

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On a nice day you can see through the Valley.

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A small loch, wooded on its north shore and a great habitat for birdlife. Folklore records that the loch is home to a bogle in the shape of a 'water bull'.

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The River Tweed, or Tweed Water (Scottish), is a river 97 miles (156 km) long that flows east across the Scottish Borders and into northern England. Tweed is an Old Celtic name meaning "border" and tweed cloth derives its name from its association with the river, on account of the hundreds of mills powered by the river at one time. The Tweed is one of the great Salmon rivers of Europe and generates a large income for the local Borders region, attracting anglers from all around the world. It is one of the best Salmon rivers in Scotland.

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Several bike shops, plenty cafes and shops exist on the main through road (High Street) in Innerleithen.

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Back onto the flat river side pathway

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Eildon And Leaderfoot?

There are a few dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Eildon And Leaderfoot, offering a peaceful cycling experience away from cars. Currently, komoot lists 4 routes that fit this description, ranging from moderate to difficult in intensity.

What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Eildon And Leaderfoot?

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for gravel biking in Eildon And Leaderfoot. During these times, you'll experience milder temperatures and enjoy the vibrant colors of the changing landscape, making for a more pleasant ride.

What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic gravel bike trails?

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Eildon And Leaderfoot offer a diverse range of terrain. You can expect a mix of forest tracks, quiet unpaved roads, and sections with chunkier gravel. Some routes may also include smoother tracks and even technical singletrack, providing a varied and engaging ride.

Are there any scenic viewpoints along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?

Yes, the region is known for its stunning views. Many trails offer glimpses of the iconic Eildon Hills. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that pass near Eildon Mid Hill Summit or Eildon Hill North. The Redbridge Viaduct – Caulshield Loch loop from Melrose also offers picturesque scenery.

What historical sites or landmarks can I explore near these routes?

Eildon And Leaderfoot is rich in history. While on your gravel bike adventure, you might pass near the impressive Leaderfoot Viaduct. The historic Melrose Abbey, Trimontium Museum, and Abbotsford House (Sir Walter Scott's home) are also prominent attractions in the vicinity, though you may need to detour slightly from the trails to visit them.

Are there family-friendly no-traffic gravel bike routes in the area?

While some routes can be challenging, there are options suitable for families looking for quieter paths. Look for routes described as 'easy' or 'moderate' difficulty. The region offers dedicated cycle paths, particularly those leading from Tweedbank station towards Melrose, which are generally more accessible for families.

Can I bring my dog on these gravel bike trails?

Many of the quieter tracks and forest paths in Eildon And Leaderfoot are suitable for cycling with a well-behaved dog, especially if they are accustomed to running alongside a bike or can be carried in a trailer. However, always ensure your dog is under control, respect local signage regarding livestock, and be mindful of other trail users.

Are there circular no-traffic gravel bike routes available?

Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Redbridge Viaduct – Caulshield Loch loop from Melrose and the Tweed Valley Near Innerleithen – Old Peel Road loop from Tweedbank are excellent circular options for no-traffic gravel biking.

Where can I find parking for these no-traffic gravel bike trails?

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for these trails, such as Melrose, Tweedbank, or Caddonfoot. Specific parking details can often be found on the individual route pages on komoot, or by checking local council websites for public car parks.

How accessible are these trails by public transport?

The Borders Railway provides good access to the region, with stations like Tweedbank offering connections that can serve as starting points for rides. From Tweedbank, you can easily access dedicated cycle paths towards Melrose and connect to other routes. Bus services also operate in the area, though carrying bikes may be restricted.

What are the typical distances and elevations for no-traffic gravel bike trails in Eildon And Leaderfoot?

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Eildon And Leaderfoot vary significantly. You can find shorter routes around 11 km (7 miles) with about 200 meters (650 feet) of elevation gain, like the Redbridge Viaduct – Caulshield Loch loop from Melrose. Longer, more challenging routes can extend over 60 km (37 miles) with more than 700 meters (2,300 feet) of climbing, such as the Tweed Valley Near Innerleithen – Old Peel Road loop from Tweedbank.

What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Eildon And Leaderfoot?

The komoot community rates the trails in Eildon And Leaderfoot highly, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Riders often praise the peacefulness of the routes away from traffic, the stunning views of the Eildon Hills and River Tweed, and the varied terrain that keeps rides interesting and engaging.

Are there cafes or pubs near the no-traffic gravel bike routes?

Yes, the towns and villages in the Eildon And Leaderfoot region, such as Melrose, Innerleithen, and Caddonfoot, offer various cafes and pubs where you can refuel and relax. Many routes pass close to these amenities, making it easy to plan a stop for refreshments during or after your ride.

Most popular routes in Eildon And Leaderfoot

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