Balblair
Seek adventure at Balblair
If you're looking for a mountain bike challenge, or peaceful walks to a pond where beasties lurk, this hidden gem is worth seeking out. You can explore its sunny forest glades and high rocky slabs on bike, foot or horseback. There's a sense of wild country on the tops, with views west and east over the hills, while deep in the forest you'll find sheltered clearings full of wildflowers and berries.
Our map guide to the forests of the Far North will help you explore Balblair and other forest trails in Sutherland.
Need a refreshment?
You'll find public toilets and a café less than a mile (1.6 km) away in Bonar Bridge, and bike shops in Ardgay and Tain.
Walking trails
Pond Trail
A short climb through the pine forest to an enchanting little dipping pond.
Moderate climb to dipping pond. Narrow gravel path through trees to a wide forest road. No obstacles.
1 miles / 1.7 km Allow ¾ hour
Pine Trail
Climb up through pine, larch and spruce forest for hilltop views across the Kyle of Sutherland.
Long fairly steep slopes for 400m. Mostly firm but uneven gravel surface. Some grassy and earthy sections that may be muddy. One narrow opening.
2 ¾ miles / 4.3 km Allow 2 hours
Mountain biking trails
Blue Trail
Blue: Moderate -
2.0 miles / 3.2 km
Soar through the trees on this twisting trail.
More information...Black Trail
Black: Severe -
4.5 miles / 7.2 km How to get here
Balblair is 40 miles north of Inverness, close to the village of Bonar Bridge. Take the A836 from Bonar Bridge towards Lairg for one mile (1.6 km) and you'll see the car park on your right at grid reference NH 603 929.
Using SatNav?
IV24 3EE is the nearest postcode, on the edge of Bonar Bridge.
Public transport
From Inverness, there's a train to Ardgay, an easy 2 mile / 3.2 km cycle from the forest. Or you can catch a bus to Bonar Bridge and walk to Balblair. You'll find timetables and details at Traveline Scotland.
Nearby places
The Highland Wildcat MTB trails near Golspie are well worth checking out. For gentle walks and leaping salmon in the summer go to the Falls of Shin, and for sheer forest delight, Raven's Rock is hard to beat.
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