Mabie has hills (like it or not!) but with the Big Views loop, you'll be rewarded with some great views over the Solway Firth and the Nith estuary without too much climbing.
The route, mostly on forest road, has been laid out to keep to the shallowest gradients in the forest, giving you an easy, enjoyable ride, and a good overall feel for the forest. There are several stopping points and viewpoints along the way.
Dalshinnie Glen
Leaving the cyclists' car park (at the top of the main car park), all routes climb a short tarmac road and enter the forest behind Mabie steading. You soon leave the forest road on a well-graded climbing path through mixed open woodland to join a wide forest track. The way opens out as you reach the Dalshinnie Glen.
At the top of the track, bear left onto the forest road. Turn right at the next junction and gently climb around the hill back in to the trees again. After a stretch the road forks. Bear left and head to the top of a short, easy singletrack descent.
Dumfries and the Nith
At the bottom, turn right onto the forest road. The route continues (via a very short hill) to a delightful cruise though larch trees, with fine views over Dumfries and the river Nith.
Continue on the forest road. Another very gentle climb brings you to the Marthrown of Mabie Outdoor Centre, and from here, it’s all downhill back to the car park.
Grade: Green (see trail grades for details of this grade)
Distance: 8km
30% singletrack
Estimated time to ride the route: 1 - 2 hours
- Looking to step up a level? Why not try Mabie's blue-graded Woodhead Loop?