I had heard about Cathkin Braes getting a MTB trail for a while. Then heard that it was going to be the place for the 2014 commonwealth MTB race.
A good couple of months ago when it was unofficially opened. I decided to go for a visit and see what the fuss was about, and maybe get a view as to how my skills would fare against a commonwealth rated trail.
When you find the place and get in to the car park. It doesn't seem like much and I couldn't see such a big event being held here. Then again you hear all the rumours of what they are going to put in here and it clicks together. There is a big billboard that faces you as you are parked which advertises the place and gives you a little inclination as which was to go.
So we begin. As you face the billboard head right. Follow the path and to your left you have the Green route, a little bit of a waste. Gives you no indication of what you are about to experience. If you miss that out and carry straight on you will come to the good stuff. You will also find yourself at the top of a big drop with a wind turbine just on the left. Pretty cool. I chickened out the big drop. After this you are in for more white knuckle stuff. Twists, turns, bearms, drops, rocks and steep climbs. Everything you would want.
At this time I got there everything was still a little new. Needed time to bed in. Think there will still be work done on it. Signs need to be a little clearer. Got lost half way round but eventually found my way.
If they get all the rumoured additions and maybe add a couple of finishing touches this place will be really good and close enough to Glasgow city centre. Distance wise not like a Glentress more akin to Carron Valley.
Definitely will be back here, mostly to improve on my last visit. It was scary and left its mark on me but I will have the last laugh. read more