Great North Trail (Cape Wrath)

The Great North Trail (Cape Wrath) is a significant portion of the larger Great North Trail. While the full GNT starts further south, this specific route focuses on the Cape Wrath section. Parking options will vary depending on your chosen starting point for this segment, as it traverses a remote area. Specific parking details for the very start of the Cape Wrath section would need local research based on your exact access point.

The terrain on this route is highly varied and often rugged. You'll encounter a mix of gravel roads and tracks, rough and rocky paths, old military roads, and ghylly roads. Be prepared for boggy plains, river crossings, and numerous steep ascents and descents. The route also features moorland and upland trails, with surfaces ranging from smooth gravel to rough, washed-out sections and some tarmac.

No, this route is considered a challenging mountain biking experience, requiring a good level of fitness and advanced riding skills. While some sections might be less technical, the overall physical demand is high, and you may need to push your bike in steep or rough conditions. It's best suited for experienced riders.

The best time to tackle this route is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically late spring to early autumn (May to September). However, weather in the Scottish Highlands can be unpredictable year-round. Be aware that midges can be prevalent in calmer weather during summer, so come prepared.

The route offers incredible and diverse scenery, including the stunning Scottish Highlands, beautiful lochs like Loch Eriboll, and picturesque glens. As you approach the coast, you'll be treated to spectacular sea views and dramatic coastlines. Specific highlights include the Track to Kearvaig Bothy and Beach and the iconic Cape Wrath Lighthouse and Ozone Café.

The route passes through the Cape Wrath Special Area of Conservation. While there are generally no entrance fees for accessing the natural landscape, it's always advisable to check for any specific local regulations or access restrictions, especially concerning military firing ranges in the area. Always respect local signage and land access codes.

While dogs are generally permitted on public access land in Scotland, it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially in remote areas where livestock and ground-nesting birds are present. Due to the challenging and remote nature of the trail, and potential river crossings, consider if it's truly suitable for your dog's fitness and temperament.

Given the highly varied and often rugged terrain, a hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike with wide tires is strongly recommended. While some sections might be rideable on a gravel bike, the technical nature of many parts, particularly in the Scottish Highlands, makes a dedicated mountain bike a much better choice for comfort and capability.

The Scottish leg of the Great North Trail, particularly towards Cape Wrath, is very remote. Facilities like cafes, pubs, and accommodation are scarce, meaning self-sufficiency is crucial. The Ozone Café at Cape Wrath Lighthouse is a notable exception at the very end of the route.

Yes, this route is part of the larger Great North Trail. Specifically, the Cape Wrath section overlaps with 100% of the official "Great North Trail (Cape Wrath)" route. It also shares sections with the "Cape Wrath Trail (Inchnadamph → Cape Wrath)" (10%), the "Klye Coastal Route to Balnakeil" (2%), and the "Old Manse Track" (2%).

This route offers an epic and unforgettable adventure through some of Scotland's most stunning and remote landscapes. It provides a true sense of exploration, allowing riders to experience wonderfully wild areas of the Highlands. The constantly changing and often dramatic scenery, combined with the significant off-road challenge, makes completing the journey to Cape Wrath a major accomplishment for any bikepacker.