New Trails making getting fit in the Forest hard to resist

People in Stirlingshire are being encouraged to get on their bikes and make the most of new cycle trails in a local forest. Rangers from Forestry Commission Scotland have put the finishing touches to new waymarked routes on 16 miles of forest road in Loch Ard Forest near Aberfoyle. The waymarking of the trails is part of its Active Woods campaign, which aims to make people aware of the ways in which they can make use of local woodlands to benefit from a healthier and more active lifestyle. Cyclists of all abilities can follow the trails, which are marked by easy-to-spot green cycle disks on natural timber posts, from three starting points: the main forest car park in Aberfoyle, the Commission car park one and a half miles west in Milton, or the car park in Kinlochard village five miles further along the Milton road. The roads run through a wide variety of terrain, and past many impressive sights, including Loch Ard itself, Loch Chon, and Duchray Water and Kelty Water, two rivers which tumble through the forest to join the river Forth. Loch Ard Forest is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, and visitors might be able to catch a glimpse of red and roe deer, pine martens, red squirrels, crossbills and many more. From April, visitors will also be able to see the ospreys which hunt over Loch Ard following their return from their winter migration to West Africa. Peter Mitchell, Forestry Commission Scotland's ranger for the area, said: "People often decide to get fit at the start of the new year but can easily get discouraged; cycling around Loch Ard forest is the ideal way to exercise without it seeming like a chore." "There are a number of fantastic vantage points along the way which make a great incentive for cyclists to keep going. The routes have impressive views across Loch Ard, Stirling itself and the mountains beyond." "The forest also offers great opportunities for walkers and horse riders – anyone who wants to get out in the fresh air will find something to enjoy." The trails are designed to be suitable for families and novice cyclists, so visitors will be able to reach every part of the route without too much trouble. For further information on the Commission's Active Woods campaign, log on to www.forestry.gov.uk/activewoods or telephone 0845 FORESTS (0845 367 3787).