About This Route
In Rothiemurchus Forest near Aviemore, Witch's Trails deliver 40km of playful blue/red singletrack: Berners, Wizard, Steamplough. Flowy berms, rollers, and tabletops in ancient Caledonian pinewoods. Beginner-friendly yet exciting; 1-4 hour rides from Glenmore Forest Park trailhead. Cairngorms National Park gem.
Safety Considerations
Adhere to Leave No Trace and Access Code: no shortcuts, pack out litter. Trails shared; bell for walkers. Spring mud, autumn leaves hide roots; dry summer best. Midges ferocious July-August; DEET mandatory. Deer fences; dismount gates. Weather flips fast; Ben Macdui blizzards possible. Grade realism: blues for novices, reds demand pumping skills. Rest often; Aviemore cafes nearby but remoteness grows deeper in.
Essential Gear
Lightweight helmet (Sweet Protection), fingerless gloves (Oakley), knee pads. Compact tool (Silva multi), mini-pump. 2L bladder, bars/trail mix. Breathable rain shell (Montane Minimus), wool socks. Phone with OS Locate; map of Strathspey.
Emergency Tips
Stay put if lost; conserve battery. 999: Police > Mountain Rescue. Aviemore station close; RAF Kinloss chopper option.