Description
Ae Forest mountain bike trail centre is part of the 7stanes network, set between Nithsdale and Annandale in Dumfries and Galloway, in south-west Scotland. It caters to a wide range of abilities, from families on the green route through to experienced cross-country riders and a well-established downhill community.
Note: the on-site cafe and bike shop are currently closed. Only temporary toilet facilities are available at the trailhead. The local Ae Bike Association is campaigning for a permanent replacement facility.
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Cross Country Trails
- Three graded XC routes are available: green, blue and red.
Ae Valley Route - Green
- A good introduction for families and first-time trail riders. Easy singletrack and forest road with one brief, sharp climb. Rewards with views over the Water of Ae. (9km)
Larch View Route - Blue
- A moderate forest route mixing forest road and singletrack. Good views of the Water of Ae and a fun ride for those looking to go a little further into the forest. (13.5km)
Ae Line - Red
- A rocky and technical cross-country trail peppered with jumps, drop-offs and tabletops. The highlight is the Omega Man descent at the end. (24km)
Downhill Trails
- Uplift runs at weekends and bank holidays via Adrenalin Uplift. Day pass Β£46 (check website for latest). Uplifts run 9 am to 3.30 pm with a 30-minute lunch break.
The Shredder - Red
- A great introduction to downhill riding. Features fast berms, flat corners, tabletop jumps, a road gap, rocky sections and off-camber stretches. Each obstacle has an easier alternative. Leads onto the Omega Man at the bottom. (1km)
Omega Man
- A fast and technical descent forming the lower section shared by The Shredder and Ae Downhill. Riders choose a red or black line through a section of jumps, drop-offs and doubles, finishing on boardwalk or log rides. (1.9km)
Ae Downhill - Double Black
- A competition-grade course with two starting options: one steep and rocky with an off-camber descent, the other a flat-out sprint into rutted turns. The trails merge through technical singletrack, a rock garden, stream gap, and the infamous Coffin Jump. Designed to challenge experienced riders. (1.6km)
Natural Trails
- Considerable natural trail riding is available in the surrounding forest beyond the marked routes.
Getting Here
- Postcode: DG1 1QB
- Turn off the A701 at Ae Bridgend, follow signs to Forest of Ae. After about 2 miles through Ae village, turn right at the crossroads just beyond the village and follow signs to the car park.
- MTB trails start at the Naze car park. Go past the main car park entrance and continue for about half a mile, then take the next left signposted for the Ae Valley car park.
Parking
- Up to 1 hour: Β£2
- Up to 3 hours: Β£3
- All day: Β£4
- Minibus or coach (all day): Β£14
- Blue Badge holders park free. Payment by coin, card or RingGo.
Other Stuff
Local club: Ae Bike Association and Facebook
Uplift: Adrenalin Uplift
Nearby accommodation: Ae Barn - a converted barn a short distance from the trailhead car park.
Official route card: Ae Forest 7stanes route card (PDF)
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- If you have ridden at Ae Forest, please share your experiences by writing a short review and posting your pictures and videos.