Home to more than 100 miles of estate trails — from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging climbs through ancient pine forests and up to breathtaking viewpoints — Glen Tanar has something to offer everyone.
Switch off, breathe in the fresh air, and explore at your own pace. Meander beside the Water of Tanar, where family-friendly, flat loops and pebble beaches make perfect picnic spots. Or lace up your boots and take on the higher routes across heathery moors and drovers’ paths, including trails towards Mount Keen, Scotland’s most easterly Munro.
Guided walks are also available for those keen to learn about the estate’s wildlife, history, and conservation work — an inspiring way to see Glen Tanar through local eyes.
Get even more out of this beautiful glen. From high-intensity mountain biking to a gentle family pedal, Glen Tanar’s ancient woodlands, off-road tracks and forest trails offer some of the best biking terrain in the Scottish Highlands. It’s the perfect escape — and there’s something for every skill level.
Choose from flat, mid-length circular loops of around 5km to thrilling long-distance rides high in the rolling hills. Experienced mountain bikers can take on the ultimate challenge and cycle to the top of Mount Keen — at 939m, it’s thought to be the UK’s highest bike ride.
Don’t have your own bike? Hire one locally at Cycle Highlands, Ballater, just a short drive away.
Begin your adventure at the Glen Tanar Visitor Centre, where you’ll find car parking, toilets, and a permanent exhibition introducing the estate’s natural and cultural heritage. You'll find the ranger service team based here. They can advise on exploring the area as well as providing information on wildlife, flora and fauna.
Open seven days a week between 10am and 5pm, the centre is run by the Glen Tanar Charitable Trust.
+44 (0)13398 86072 | ranger@glentanartrust.org
Whether you prefer a gentle stroll, a challenging hike or bike, or a day of discovery with family, Glen Tanar’s network of paths and open spaces makes it easy to explore at your own rhythm. Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, keep dogs under close control, and come prepared for changeable Highland weather.
