Skills Loop - Glentress

Mountain biking is a sport that can be enjoyed by everyone at any skill level. At Glentress, bikers are treated to some of the best trails around and the guys at the Forestry Commission are keen to make sure everyone is able to take advantage of them.

Not everyone has the natural biking balance and skills of a champion and learning it all for the first time can be a bit daunting. This is where the new skills loop comes in.

A firm favourite with novices, mums and dads, and the kids especially, the skills loop is great for learning some basic mtb techniques. It's got wide singletrack of different terrains, small drops offs, a bomb hole and berms, plus even some easy north shore ramps. You can also learn how to climb a hill properly and descend like a demon.

History of the loop

The whole idea of a practice loop originated from Ian Grant and Grant Martin of the Peebles Cycling Club. Their ideas were mixed with thinking from IMBA who had started up similar skills loops in the States. Combine this with design ideas from trailbuilder Pete Laing, and loads of enthusiasm from volunteers, plus the 7stanes makeover, and the result is a great wee loop. Go try it!