Trail Conditions Update for Glentress, 27/12/2009

Got out Boxing Day afternoon to check on the trail conditions at Glentress and took a few pics. Here's how it's looking at the mo':

UPDATED: 29/12/2009: a hard frost on Sunday/Monday nights has made the lying snow hard and icy - making the lower sections of trail that were rideable (see below), much sketchier to ride, with frozen tyre ruts to contend with (thanks v.much to Emma from the Hub Bike Shop for the update). Dusting of fresh snow Tuesday morning. Recommend waiting until the snow/ice thaws before coming riding.

Carparks: tarmac access road at forest entrance from A72 has snowy/icy patches. 7stanes carpark is shut. Osprey car park is open but take care as there's icy snow lying with some deep patches. Red Squirrel and Buzzards Nest car parks and access road to them are closed, due to deep snow.

Buzzards Nest car park


Trails: For experienced riders used to riding in snow:

The climb up to the Buzzards Nest car park is mostly rideable, but hard work - it has a compacted ride line developed which, at the time of writing is still quite soft under tyre.


Cardie Hill Climb - switchbacks just above entry

The Blue Route from the Buzzards Nest down is mostly rideable, though very slippy and unpredictable (Electric Blue, Good Game, Admiral). The snow is currently still quite soft (not hard ice). The Red/Black finish on Falla Brae has a ride line down to the normal trail surface developed in places but overall is still very slippy with soft snow.



Flyover Bridge on Electric Blue



Falla Brae - Red/Black trail just before passing under powerlines and into trees

Above the Buzzards Nest there are no defined ride lines and with the snow being so deep (1 foot+), riding is very difficult and it will be mostly pushing. Even the downhills will involve some pushing due to the depth of snow. Not recommended. The Skills Area, Green Route and Freeride Park are all too deep in snow to ride.


Top of Freeride Trails, start of Essentials Freeride.

Overall, for experienced riders used to riding in the snow, the Blue Route up as far as the Buzzards Nest and then back down again is the only real option. It will take you a lot longer than normal though and is very slippy. There are several bail out options on the climb, if you need to cut the ride short. For less experienced riders, it may be worth waiting until the snow goes before visiting. You can call the local FC Ranger on 07834 435380 to get the very latest trail conditions.

Note: the conditions may change from the above over the next few days depending on the weather. Be prepared.

Cheers,

Andy
(MTB Ranger)