Bikepacking Scotland: A Beginner's Journey on the National Cycle Network
Bikepacking, the fusion of cycling and wild camping, has surged in popularity, offering adventure without the burden of heavy gear. Originally known as cycle touring in Victorian times, this modern trend leverages lightweight, strap-on bags for enhanced convenience on long journeys. With affordable technical equipment and well-marked global routes, accessibility for newcomers is steadily improving.
For Maryann Wright, bikepacking presented a thrilling challenge beyond mere wild camping, promising greater distances than hiking. Yet, as a first-timer, doubts lingered: "Am I too average a cyclist to handle the distances?" she pondered, questioning whether pedaling would feel liberating or cumbersome.
Planning the Perfect Scottish Adventure
Scotland emerged as an ideal destination for this inaugural trip, thanks to its right-to-roam laws and proximity to major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. The plan involved a 100km, two-night ride along the National Cycle Network from Glasgow to the Trossachs National Park, traversing gorse-covered hills and windswept glens.
Seeking expert advice, Maryann consulted pro cyclist Mark Beaumont, who emphasized the essentials: a good night's sleep, dry clothes, ample food, and a reliable bike. Edinburgh-based ProjektRide provided a Genesis Croix De Fer 40 gravel bike, blending lightweight road capabilities with off-road sturdiness. Equipped with gear like an Endura Hummvee helmet, Big Agnes Bikepack tent, and Vango sleep mat, Maryann and her friend Taryn set off.
Navigating the National Cycle Network
Choosing stage seven of the NCN from Glasgow to Callander, they followed the flat Forth and Clyde canal, passing swans and autumn foliage to the Bankies Bike Sculpture. The first leg covered 35km to Balloch at Loch Lomond, where muscles ached and a pub dinner at Balloch House Hotel offered respite.
Day two brought a sore backside and a 46km ride into the Trossachs National Park. Tracing the West Highland Way, they enjoyed leafy lanes and rewarding downhills, stopping in Drymen for a carb-loading lunch. The community spirit shone through, with fellow bikepackers and courteous drivers enhancing the experience. Water refill and repair stations proved plentiful, though hill climbs tested their inexperience, leading to walks that delayed progress but allowed appreciation of clear skies.
Challenges and Rewards in the Highlands
Arriving in Aberfoyle, they faced a steep ascent up Three Lochs Forest Drive, pushing bikes as pros zipped past. Surrounded by conifers and red squirrels, breaks revealed sweeping views of waterfalls and Loch Drunkie. As sunset painted the sky in purples and auburn, they camped beside Loch Venachar, with a wild swim washing away the day's grime.
Day three required an early 30km sprint to catch pre-booked trains, completing the route to Callander and grabbing breakfast at Mhor Bread bakery before speeding to Dumbarton for the return to Glasgow.
Lessons Learned from a Novice Bikepacker
The verdict? Bikepacking offered liberation but also stress. Everything took longer than expected, with slower cycling and more stops creating schedule pressures. Missing a train could cause significant delays, emphasizing the need for flexibility and cycling tickets. Weather risks added to the planning complexity.
For novices, refining bike skills is crucial; Maryann found gear adjustments and seat variations alleviated aches. Nutrition mattered too, with over 1,000 extra calories burned daily, necessitating nuts, oat bars, and fruit over sugary snacks. Safety was a priority, and cycling with groups like Queens of Pain Cycle Club can ease concerns for solo female travelers.
Ultimately, bikepacking inspires wanderlust, blending rigorous exercise with deep nature immersion. Yet, it demands careful planning and responsibility to unlock true freedom in the wild.
