Things to Do around Backwater Reservoir
Backwater Reservoir, a region nestled in Glen Isla in northwest Angus, Scotland, offers a diverse landscape ideal for outdoor pursuits. This area is characterized by the large, man-made freshwater reservoir, surrounded by rolling hills, open moorland, and picturesque glens. The terrain includes reservoir-side paths, forested areas, and elevated points providing expansive views, making it suitable for several sports like hiking, road cycling, mountain biking, touring cycling, and more.
Things to Do in Backwater Reservoir
Outdoor enthusiasts will find a variety…
54
Routes
4.5
(53)
Average rating
461
People visited
4.5
(6)
24
hikers
17.6km
04:46
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
20
hikers
7.06km
02:00
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
41
hikers
6.65km
01:55
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
33
hikers
7.77km
02:33
390m
390m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(3)
7
riders
35.1km
03:14
820m
820m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5
riders
40.3km
03:13
680m
670m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
4
riders
13.8km
01:01
210m
210m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
21.0km
02:26
760m
760m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
18
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
78.1km
03:47
920m
920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
114km
05:25
1,280m
1,280m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
101km
04:42
1,140m
1,140m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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14
runners
6.91km
00:43
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
13.8km
01:30
210m
210m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
9.21km
00:58
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
3
riders
57.3km
03:46
800m
800m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
13.8km
00:52
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
2
riders
68.5km
04:32
1,070m
1,070m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
18.4km
01:12
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
36.3km
02:29
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Backwater Reservoir?
Backwater Reservoir is a large, man-made freshwater reservoir located in Glen Isla, northwest Angus, Scotland. It is 2 miles (3 kilometers) long and held by an 800-meter (2625-foot) earth embankment dam. The surrounding area features rolling hills, open moorland, and glens.
What outdoor activities are available at Backwater Reservoir?
Backwater Reservoir offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, road cycling, mountain biking, touring cycling, jogging, and gravel biking. The area provides diverse landscapes for various skill levels. Angling, kayaking, and paddling are also enjoyed on the reservoir.
Are there hiking trails for all skill levels at Backwater Reservoir?
Yes, Backwater Reservoir features hiking trails catering to different fitness levels, from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes. A popular route is the 3.5-mile (5.7 km) circular "Backwater Reservoir loop." For more options, consult Hiking around Backwater Reservoir.
Are there family-friendly hiking options at Backwater Reservoir?
Yes, Backwater Reservoir offers family-friendly hiking options, including easy strolls along the reservoir-side paths. The "Lakeside Loop" is a relatively flat and easy trail suitable for families. More details can be found in Family-friendly hikes around Backwater Reservoir.
What cycling opportunities are available at Backwater Reservoir?
Backwater Reservoir and its surroundings are well-suited for road cycling, mountain biking, touring cycling, and gravel biking. Routes often follow well-made tracks and minor roads, with some sections offering varied terrain. Specific guides include Road Cycling Routes around Backwater Reservoir and MTB Trails around Backwater Reservoir.
Are there mountain biking trails at Backwater Reservoir?
Yes, mountain biking trails are available, such as the "Main Trail" through woodlands and the advanced "Ridge Run" with steep descents. The "Lakeside Loop" offers a family-friendly, flat option. Explore more trails with MTB Trails around Backwater Reservoir.
What are the notable natural features around Backwater Reservoir?
The area is characterized by Glen Isla, rolling hills, and open moorland. The reservoir itself is a prominent feature, held by an impressive earth embankment dam. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from elevated points like Hare Cairn and Creigh Hill.
What wildlife can be seen at Backwater Reservoir?
The reservoir and its surroundings are home to diverse wildlife. Sightings may include red squirrels and various bird species, such as white-tailed eagles and ospreys. The natural environment supports a rich ecosystem.
Do I need a permit for hiking or cycling at Backwater Reservoir?
Information regarding permits for general hiking or cycling at Backwater Reservoir is not publicly available. Access to trails and roads is generally open. Specific activities like angling may require permits.
How can I find komoot guides for Backwater Reservoir?
Komoot offers several guides for Backwater Reservoir, covering various activities. Examples include Hiking around Backwater Reservoir, Road Cycling Routes around Backwater Reservoir, and MTB Trails around Backwater Reservoir. These guides provide detailed information on specific routes and activities.
Who owns and operates Backwater Reservoir, and how can they be contacted?
Backwater Reservoir is owned and operated by Scottish Water. Their official website is www.scottishwater.co.uk. For general inquiries, Scottish Water can be reached at 0800 077 8778.
What is the average rating for routes in Backwater Reservoir on komoot?
Routes in Backwater Reservoir have an average rating of 4.54 out of 5 stars on komoot. This rating is based on feedback from more than 1,000 visitors who have explored the area's trails and paths.
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