The best gravel rides around Harperrig Reservoir

There are over 40 gravel bike trails available around Harperrig Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 90 times.

The terrain around Harperrig Reservoir is diverse, featuring rolling hills and open moorland within the Pentland Hills. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved segments, including historic drovers' roads. Routes can vary from smoother paths to more rugged, natural trails with significant elevation changes.

Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Cairns Castle, dating back to around 1440, which projects into the reservoir. Old drovers' roads like the Cauldstane Slap also weave through the landscape, and there are Bronze Age Scheduled Ancient Monuments on East Cairn Hill and West Cairn Hill. For more information on the reservoir itself, you can visit Harperrig Reservoir on Wikipedia.

Many of the gravel bike routes around Harperrig Reservoir are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Wilderness Wood – Pateshill Wind Farm loop from Livingston South offers expansive views, while the extensive Black Law Wind Farm – Wilsontown Inn Ruins loop from Kirknewton features significant elevation gain through remote moorland.

The trails range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 6 easy, 22 moderate, and 14 difficult routes. Some routes, like the Threipmuir Reservoir – Glencorse Reservoir Overflow loop from Livingston South, are considered difficult due to their length and elevation.

While many routes involve varied terrain and elevation, there are moderate options available. For a shorter, less strenuous ride, consider the Wilderness Wood – Calder Wood Wild Garlic Trail loop from East Calder, which leads through varied woodland and open areas and is often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.

The Pentland Hills area is generally welcoming to dogs, but it's important to keep them under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which advises keeping dogs on a lead or under close control near farm animals and during bird breeding seasons.

The region offers stunning panoramic views. Mount Maw, at 535m, provides extensive vistas over the Southern Uplands and the Pentland Hills. Trails to East Cairn Hill also offer wide-ranging views over West Lothian and Fife. The reservoir itself, with Gull Island, is a tranquil and scenic spot.

While direct public transport to the reservoir's immediate vicinity can be limited, you can often reach nearby towns like Livingston South or Kirknewton by train or bus. From there, you might need to cycle or arrange for a short taxi ride to reach the trailheads. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Parking is typically available at various access points around the Pentland Hills and near Harperrig Reservoir. Specific parking areas can be found near popular trailheads or villages in the vicinity. Always ensure you park responsibly and do not obstruct local access or private property.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. Winter rides are possible but be prepared for colder temperatures, potential ice, and boggy sections, especially on less maintained trails like parts of The Thieves Road.

While Harperrig Reservoir itself is quite rural, nearby villages and towns in West Lothian offer various amenities. You can find cafes, pubs, and shops in places like Livingston, Mid Calder, or West Linton, which are often starting or ending points for longer routes. It's a good idea to plan your route to include a stop if you're looking for refreshments.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 7 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, expansive views, and the unique experience of riding through the Pentland Hills and along historic drovers' roads. The Camps Viaduct – Almondell Country Park loop from Livingston South is another popular choice among local riders.