LOCAL RIDERS ACCESS GROUP

Riding routes and local riders access group. You can see details of existing routes which are continually being updated as we get more routes opened up. More information on the work of the group at http://www.caithness.org/

We spent a very enjoyable day driving round the route described below. It was in August so the weather was excellent - weather conditions are not always so favourable!

Parking: entrance to the Forest just before the bridge. Space for about 3/4 boxes/trailers without blocking the gate.
Distance: 20 miles round trip - spur to Forsinard about 7 miles
Terrain: Varying
20 mile ride at Loch More and spur to Forsinard

20 mile routeis rideable now. Most of the section from Loch More at ND LR12 072463 to Dalnawillan Lodge at ND LR12 030409 is very stony and really only suitable for walking and trotting when it is very dry. It may be softer after rain but even then not suitable for fast work. It would be up to each individual to make up their own minds about the conditions.

After turning towards Loch Dubh the track is in fair condition. At the entrance to the Loch Dhu Forest at ND LR12 015435 there is a cattle grid with a gate beside which has rylock fencing over the whole surface of the gate and has been wired up

After bearing right at Altnabreac station there is a barrier which could potentially be closed but a horse could get round it. The surface is good and there are long sections where you could have a canter. There are various tracks off the main track which may be possible for short rides. Plenty of parking at Altnabreac station.

There are two cattle grids with gates beside them at ND LR12 049475 and at ND LR12 053475. There is the potential for those gates to be locked, but they were open at the time we drove through.
Spur from Altnabreac Station to Forsinain Farm

There are several gates along the route, which were open, the section now belongs to the RSPB. It is about 10 miles from Altnabreac Station to Forsinain.

A magnificent area to ride - enjoy!