Description
Scolty Hill sits on the southern edge of Banchory in Aberdeenshire, managed by Forestry and Land Scotland. The forest is popular with both walkers and mountain bikers, with a mix of informal natural trails through mixed woodland and a network of short downhill tracks on the eastern slopes of the hill. The summit is marked by the Burnett Monument, a prominent tower with views over Royal Deeside. The Deeside Way, a long-distance path between Aberdeen and Ballater, runs through the forest.
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The Trails
- The main XC route heads west from the car park through Blackhall Forest to Shooting Greens car park at the far end. This can be ridden as an out-and-back or on a slightly different return line. Trail options range from easy forest roads to more technical natural singletrack. Note that some paths are signed as unsuitable for bikes to protect against erosion. Respect these signs and stay on the marked cycle routes.
- On the eastern slopes of Scolty Hill, there are approximately eight short downhill tracks, steep, rocky, with drops and jumps. These are unsanctioned and ungraded but are broadly black in character. No uplift is available.
Getting Here
- Scolty Car Park, B974, Banchory, AB31 6PT. From Banchory town centre, head south on Dee Street (B974), cross the River Dee, and follow signs for Scolty Woodland Walks on the right-hand side. Scolty is around a 5-minute drive or 30-minute walk from Banchory.
- Parking charges apply: Β£2 for up to 1 hour, Β£2.50 for up to 3 hours, Β£3 for all day. Blue Badge holders park free. Pay by coin, card or RingGo.
- No toilets on site. The nearest public toilets are at Bellfield car park in Banchory town centre.
- By bus: regular Stagecoach services between Aberdeen and Royal Deeside stop in Banchory. Check Traveline Scotland for timetables.
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