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Kirroughtree Full Red and Black XC

A combination of the fun flowy Red and rockier, more technical Black routes at Kirroughtree

Mountain Biking Severe

Distance
32 km
Ascent
762 m
Descent
762 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
22 m
High Point
240 m
Gradient
Kirroughtree Full Red and Black XC Map

Hidden in the atmospheric misty Galloway forest, deep in the remote southwest of Scotland is Kirroughtree, arguably the riders' choice of the 7Stanes MTB trail centres. The 7Stanes are a network of 7 trail centres across the south of Scotland. (Stane means stone and each site has a special stone—from meteorites to sculptures en-route.) The other Stane sites include the ever-popular Glentress and Innerleithen.

Description

Kirroughtree is a long way from anywhere, which gives this area such a unique, wild feel. While it’s a mission getting here, it’s a good job the trails won’t disappoint. The Red is flowy and fast with challenges to keep you on your toes. It’s more natural and rougher than most reds and combining it with the Black provides a full day out that you’ll want to ride again (when your legs recover!).

The so-called McMoab section is probably the most iconic feature in the 7stanes. McMoab is a large area of rock slabs made up of super grippy granite, which, like it’s Utah cousin, has arrows marked on it to take you on a balance and skill session to test those handling skills. It ends with a steep chute to further test the nerve. Well-worth a detour to try and finish it without dabbing!

Back on the Black, the classic riding is wet, loose, and slippery for the rest of the trail. Get it on a dry day and the riding becomes super fast and loose, but that’s unusual!

To ride both the Red and Black trails is a tough day out here—the singletrack trails are relentless in their challenge, but it's well worth the effort. Finish with some excellent cake at the café or stay in the area to explore the huge wild area around Galloway forest.

Difficulty

Severe

Widely variable, narrow trail tread with steeper grades and unavoidable obstacles of 15in/38cm tall or less. Obstacles may include unavoidable bridges 24in/61cm wide or less, large rocks, gravel, difficult root sections, and more. Ideal for advanced-level riders.

Extreme Exposure

4 out of 4

Some trail sections are extremely exposed where falling will almost certainly result in serious injury or death.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Flow
  • Technical
  • Wet-weather friendly
  • Drops
  • Roots
  • Rock Slabs
  • Rock Gardens