4.6
(144)
1,455
riders
162
rides
Mountain biking around Craigmillar offers access to a diverse landscape, from the woodlands and grasslands of Craigmillar Castle Park to the wider Edinburgh region's varied terrain. The area serves as a gateway to the extensive off-road cycle trails of the Lothian and Borders region, including renowned trail centers. Routes often feature a mix of natural paths, coastal sections, and climbs with panoramic views across the Firth of Forth and surrounding hills. The terrain provides options ranging from gentle paths suitable…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.5
(2)
22
riders
71.7km
04:14
260m
260m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
67.5km
04:01
430m
430m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
10
riders
41.7km
02:38
280m
280m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
24.2km
01:23
220m
220m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
3
riders
28.7km
02:14
510m
510m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Link this up with the Innocent Railway for one of the nicest ways to get between Edinburgh and Musselburgh.
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike. May need to hike a small 20m section depending on tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section, would be fine to ride down though
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike, not easy though :). There may be a small 20m section you have to hike depending on your tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section
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Star of many movies and television shows good place to start on the castle trail
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Small chapel at the exit of the village perched on a rocky spur, magnificent!
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Lovely little path leading close into the city.
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For a rewarding experience at the View of the Rock Arch in North Berwick, plan your visit during the spring or autumn months. These seasons offer milder weather and fewer crowds, enhancing your enjoyment of the natural beauty [1]. Be prepared for strong winds at the summit, even if conditions are calm at lower levels [2]. To ensure safety and minimize environmental impact, stick to the established paths during your hike. [1] https://www.chasingthelongroad.com/scotland/things-to-do-north-berwick/ [2] https://app.wanderlog.com/place/details/410193 [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Berwick_Law
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Some great views of the rail bridge from South Queensferry. The free car park, with toilets, beneath the rail bridge makes for a good start and finish point.
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Komoot offers over 160 mountain bike trails around Craigmillar. These routes vary in difficulty, providing options for different skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.
The mountain bike trails around Craigmillar are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, which includes coastal paths, varied woodlands, and routes offering panoramic views across the Firth of Forth and surrounding hills.
Yes, there are plenty of options for beginners. Komoot lists over 50 easy mountain bike trails around Craigmillar. These routes are generally less demanding, making them ideal for those new to mountain biking or looking for a more relaxed ride.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 12 difficult mountain bike trails around Craigmillar. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and more technical terrain. For example, the Maidens Cleugh Climb – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Liberton includes over 500 meters of ascent, offering a demanding ride.
Many of the mountain bike routes around Craigmillar are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This makes planning your ride and return journey more convenient.
Absolutely. The region offers several mountain bike routes that incorporate coastal paths and beach areas. A popular choice is the Fisherrow Harbour – Longniddry Bents Beach loop from Brunstane, which takes you along the coast and offers scenic views of the Firth of Forth.
Yes, the area around Craigmillar is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You can find routes that offer views of iconic sites like Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano with commanding views. Other viewpoints include Corstorphine Hill Tower and the View of Edinburgh from Blackford Hill, providing stunning panoramas of the city and beyond.
While specific dedicated mountain bike parking isn't widely advertised within Craigmillar itself, Craigmillar Castle Park offers facilities for visitors, and general parking is available in various locations around Edinburgh. For serious mountain biking, many of the renowned trail centers in the wider Lothian and Borders area, such as the 7stanes, have dedicated parking facilities.
Craigmillar is well-connected to Edinburgh's public transport network. Numerous bus routes serve the area, making it accessible from different parts of the city. You can plan your journey using local transport apps or websites to find the most convenient bus stops near your chosen trailheads.
Many of the easier routes around Craigmillar are suitable for families, especially those within Craigmillar Castle Park which features paths for general cycling. These trails often have gentler gradients and less technical terrain. Always check the route details on Komoot for specific difficulty ratings and terrain descriptions to ensure it matches your family's ability.
Generally, many outdoor trails in Scotland are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock or wildlife. Craigmillar Castle Park, for instance, is a popular spot for dog walking. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations or local signage for any restrictions, and ensure you clean up after your dog.
Spring and autumn often offer the best conditions for mountain biking around Craigmillar, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though trails might be busier. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder, wetter conditions and potentially muddy trails.
Craigmillar, being part of Edinburgh, has various local amenities including cafes and pubs. While not directly on every trail, you'll find options within easy reach in the surrounding neighborhoods for refreshments before or after your ride.


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