Cairngorms Bike Ride: Wildfire Recovery and Bikepacking Routes 2026

Discover the Cairngorms by bike, where autumn's arrival brings a sigh of relief after a devastating summer wildfire. In the Cairngorms national park, the bracken is changing from dark green to russet and umber. Birch leaves are lined with gold, while the Scots pines remain proudly green. Autumn is arriving with a little sigh of relief here, after a summer few will forget.

The wildfire that began near Glenmore and Abernethy on 15 July burned more than 33 sq km (13 sq miles) of moorland and forest. More than 500 firefighters were involved; homes and businesses were evacuated; and the emergency response lasted over a month. Visiting now, it’s hard to see, or even imagine, the damage. Much of the burned area is high on the hill and far from the roads. It’s a huge loss but, in a national park stretching 4,528 sq km (1,748 sq miles), surprisingly easy to miss.

New Bikepacking Routes in the Cairngorms

I have come with a gravel bike to retest new bikepacking routes with Kees Wouters and Yannick Ferbeek from Legendary Rides, which offers self-guided tours, and Bikepacking Scotland founder Markus Stitz, who helped develop the routes. I arrive in Aviemore from Edinburgh on an electric Ember bus, which allows bikes to be booked on board, a welcome development in Scottish public transport. Soon I’m heading out of town through heather and Scots pines, my bike bags stuffed with everything I need for the next few days.

The original route would have taken us through Glenmore, past Loch Morlich and Ryvoan bothy, but there are still path closures. Instead, we follow alternative trails that showcase the park's resilience. The new routes are designed to avoid fire-damaged areas while still offering spectacular views and challenging terrain.

What to Expect on a Cairngorms Bikepacking Trip

• Terrain: A mix of gravel tracks, singletrack, and remote moorland paths.
• Distance: Routes range from 50 to 200 km, suitable for all levels.
• Scenery: Ancient Caledonian pine forests, heather-clad hills, and sparkling lochs.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for red squirrels, ospreys, and reindeer.
• Accommodation: Bothies, campsites, and cozy B&Bs along the way.

Wildfire Impact and Recovery

The wildfire was one of the largest in Scotland's recent history. It started near Glenmore and Abernethy and quickly spread due to dry conditions and strong winds. Firefighters from across the UK battled the blaze for over a month. The ecological impact was significant: rare moorland habitats and ancient woodlands were destroyed, and wildlife was displaced.

However, nature is resilient. Already, new growth is emerging. The park authority has implemented restoration projects, including replanting native trees and restoring peatlands. Visitors can contribute by respecting closures and staying on designated paths.

Comparing Cairngorms Bikepacking Routes

Planning Your Trip

Spring and autumn are ideal for bikepacking in the Cairngorms, with fewer midges and comfortable temperatures. Summer can be busy, but the long daylight hours allow for extended rides. Winter requires fat bikes and expert skills due to snow and ice.

Public transport is improving: Ember buses now carry bikes between Edinburgh and Aviemore, and ScotRail allows bike reservations on many routes. This makes car-free bikepacking increasingly feasible.

Always check for path closures and fire damage updates on the Cairngorms National Park Authority website before you go. Carry a repair kit, plenty of water, and a map—mobile signal is patchy in remote areas.

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