Description
The Abriachan Kelpies trails sit high in the Scottish Highlands above the shores of Loch Ness, operated by the Abriachan Forest Trust, a social enterprise whose community of around 140 local residents purchased 534 hectares of forest in 1998. Named after the mythical water horses of Scottish folklore, the venue offers green and blue graded cross-country routes alongside a popular pump track at the trailhead car park. A particularly good choice for families and riders building confidence.
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The Trails
- Green Trail - Short introductory loop with an easy, footpath-like character. Suitable for first-timers and younger riders. Some of the original green route has been converted to blue as the network has developed.
- Blue Trail - The main family loop, surfaced throughout with natural obstacles across boggy sections. Extended in scope as part of recent network improvements funded by SportScotland.
- Pump Track - A purpose-built pump track beside the trailhead car park, designed and built by the Trust with SportScotland funding. Popular with all ages and a good warm-up before heading out on the main trails.
History
- Together the trails are known as the Kelpies Trails, named after the mythical water horses of Scottish Highland folklore. The Abriachan Forest Trust was established when the local community purchased the forest in 1998, developing it as a social enterprise with trails, educational programmes and conservation projects.
Getting Here
- From Inverness, head south on the A82 towards Drumnadrochit and turn right at the Abriachan signpost. Travel up the Abriachan road for approximately one mile until you reach the village hall. At the next junction take the left fork signposted Abriachan Forest Walks. Pass Loch Laide on your left; the forest is the next left turn, with the Trust car park 300 metres further along.
- Postcode for navigation: IV3 8LB. Parking is free. Toilets and a picnic area are available at the car park.
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