Dunning Common & Glen Devon loop from Auchterarder

Auchterarder serves as a convenient starting point for this loop. While specific parking areas for the trailhead aren't detailed, Auchterarder offers various parking facilities. Synergy Cycles, a local bike shop and cafe in Auchterarder, could be a good resource for local parking advice or a potential starting point if you plan to visit their cafe.

This route is considered difficult and requires very good fitness. It features significant elevation gain, with a total ascent of approximately 456 meters over 40.6 kilometers. Expect continuous climbs, including one from Auchterarder that averages a 5% gradient for 7km and can reach over 15% in sections, making it one of the hardest climbs in Perthshire.

The loop offers a varied terrain. It's predominantly asphalt and paved roads, with about 38.5 km of asphalt and 1.07 km paved. However, some segments, particularly through Dunning Common and the Ochil Hills, may include unpaved or difficult-to-ride sections, gravel trails, and forest tracks. The main road through Glen Devon (A823) is generally well-paved.

You'll encounter several scenic spots and landmarks. Highlights include the Maggie Wall Witch Monument, the Road through Dunning Common offering superb views over Strathearn, and the Road Through the Eastern Ochil Hills. Glen Devon itself is picturesque, with views north towards Gleneagles and the mountains around Loch Earn, and south to rolling hills and the River Devon.

May is particularly recommended for cycling this route, especially for the spectacular yellow gorse in Glen Devon. Generally, spring and summer offer the most favorable conditions for touring cycling in Scotland, with longer daylight hours and milder weather.

While the route primarily uses roads and tracks, specific regulations for dogs on this touring bicycle route are not detailed. If cycling with a dog, ensure it is well-behaved and accustomed to road cycling environments. Always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or in natural areas, and be mindful of local leash laws.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle the Dunning Common & Glen Devon loop. The route primarily uses public roads and access tracks.

Auchterarder, as your starting and end point, offers options for food and drink. Notably, Synergy Cycles in Auchterarder functions as both a bike shop and a cafe, making it a convenient stop before or after your ride. Along the route itself, options may be limited, so it's advisable to carry sufficient provisions.

Auchterarder is accessible by public transport. While specific bus routes or train connections directly to the trailhead are not provided, you can research local bus services to Auchterarder. Gleneagles train station is also nearby, offering further public transport connections, though you would need to cycle from there to Auchterarder.

Given its classification as a 'difficult' touring bicycle route with significant elevation gain and challenging climbs, this loop is not recommended for families with young children or less experienced cyclists. It requires very good fitness and experience with varied terrain and steep ascents.

The route includes a continuous 7km ascent from Auchterarder with an average 5% gradient, reaching over 15% in parts. To tackle this, consider pacing yourself early on and utilizing your gears effectively. If you're not on an e-bike, be prepared for a strenuous effort. The descent through Dunning Common, heading north, is described as relaxing after the climb, so save some energy to enjoy it.