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MABIE trails

Big Views Loop (green grade)


(Average user rating: 5 Stars 5/5)

7stanes trails are for all ages and all abilities

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?

Your Comments

Name: Gail (5 Stars)
15/May/2010
Great route, good layout; does exactly what it says on the tin! I struggled a bit at first but the climbs are well worth it for the downhills. Had one kid in a seat and one on tag along and still managed, they loved it as well.
Name: Bertie (5 Stars)
10/May/2010
Due to an embarassing lack of fitness I struggled at first but the route is great for beginners, the little bit of single track is great, the views are spectacular and the final descent is awesome! Well planned, well signposted and everything the guide on this website says it is - there is no reason not to do it!
Name: Paul (5 Stars)
31/Aug/2009
A really enjoyable and breathtaking ride. Well managed and planned. Do it.

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