The Witchs Trails
Route facts
Waterways:
Caledonian Canal »
Difficulty: Moderate
Circular route from: Forestry Commission Car Park
Legend has it that the Witch of Leanachan (“lee-nach-an”) fled to the hills of Aonach Mor in the 1800s. Keeping her spooky spirit alive, the world-famous Witch’s Trails continue to bewitch mountain bikers. There are 45km of trail to tackle.
The Trails
There are four different trails for you to try:
Small World (Blue - Moderate)
This is a 1km loop that gives aspiring champions a taste of world-class mountain biking, giving a quick trip round the start of the World Championship trail and back along the old World Cup circuit.
Cour Loop (Blue - Moderate)
Offering a mix of singletrack and forest road, the 19km Cour Loop follows the route of the old puggyline (narrow gage railway) out to the Cour river near Spean Bridge, then tracks the river for a while before returning to the car park via forest road.
World Champs Trail (Red - Difficult)
Specially devised for the 2007 World Championships held here, this 8.5km world-class singletrack loop features 270m of climb and descent. It is designed for the experienced mountain biker, and has options for the very experienced mountain biker along the way. Technical features, hard climbs and fast descents on an exhilarating singletrack.
10 Under The Ben (Red - Difficult)
Again for the experienced mountain biker, with options for the very experienced. 10 Under the Ben is used for the big event of the same title each year in June. This 16.5km loop trail is a mix of dedicated singletrack and forest road. Watch out for Nessie - a real monster of a descent!
For any Witch's Trails or Leanachan Forest queries, please contact Lochaber Forest District:
Telephone: 01397 702184
Email: lochaber.district@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
Forestry Commission Scotland
Lochaber Forest District
Torlundy,
By Fort William
PH33 6SW
Getting there
Parking: Car parking is available at the Forestry Commission car park beside the Nevis Range. Follow green the signposts.
Map controls
Use the buttons above to bring your chosen information layer to the front of the map. You can then click on the icons for that information layer to see more information.