Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Dukes Pass Scenic Drive
Road cycling
5.0
(68)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
December 4, 2022
Road cycling
Loch Achray is at about 100m and Aberfoyle is lower at about 20m. The highest point on the pass is at 238m.
August 17, 2018
Road cycling
April 13, 2019
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Dukes Pass Scenic Drive
4.8
(5)
311
riders
This difficult 55.4-mile (89.2 km) racebike loop from Dunblane immerses you in the majestic landscapes of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park. You will cycle alongside the tranquil waters of Loch Venachar and Loch Achray, enjoying views across the glens. The route features significant elevation gain, totaling 3224 feet (983 metres), and typically takes about 4 hours and 5 minutes to complete. A highlight is the challenging ascent of Duke's Pass, known for its steep gradients and sweeping bends, offering a quintessential Scottish road cycling experience.
As the most popular road cycling route originating from Dunblane, you can expect clear access from this town. This demanding route requires a very good level of fitness, so prepare accordingly for the challenging climbs. While primarily on mostly well-paved surfaces, the Duke's Pass section is often found to have a better surface when ridden north to south, allowing for a faster descent. Plan your ride to make the most of this feature and ensure a rewarding experience.
What makes this loop particularly notable is its combination of demanding climbs, rewarding descents, and breathtaking natural beauty. The Duke's Pass itself is a classic climb within the cycling community, drawing riders to its challenging slopes. The route offers an immersive experience in a region rich with history, including connections to figures like Rob Roy MacGregor and the era of Victorian tourism. It showcases the stunning landscapes of the Trossachs, an area celebrated for its beauty that has inspired poets and painters.
4.4
(9)
193
riders
The Loch Venachar, Loch Achray & Dukes Pass loop from Callander is a highly regarded road cycling trail, offering a diverse and scenic experience. This 25.3-mile (40.8 km) route presents a moderate challenge with 1543 feet (470 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 56 minutes. You will cycle through 'Highlands in miniature' scenery, enjoying richly forested lochs and glens, with stunning views around Loch Drunkie, Loch Achray, and Loch Venachar. The trail features a mix of quiet roads and challenging climbs, most notably the demanding ascent of the Dukes Pass, and you can spot Ben A'an's striking summit pyramid in the distance. While mostly well-paved, some sections along the National Cycle Network (NCN7) or the 'Forest Drive' may include white gravel or forestry road surfaces.
Starting from Callander, you will find convenient bike hire and repair services, making it an ideal base for your ride. Basic amenities, including cafes and visitor centers, are also available in nearby villages like Brig o' Turk. Be prepared for significant hills and varied road conditions; some private roads alongside Loch Venachar may have 'vicious traffic humps,' and certain segments can be challenging, especially on descents. This moderate road ride demands good fitness, particularly for the initial 2-3 miles of the Dukes Pass, which is known as a 'hard slog' before leveling off.
This loop is a top favorite among local road cyclists, celebrated for its exceptional scenic beauty and the physical challenge it offers. The route winds through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the Trossachs, effectively combining quiet stretches of road with more demanding climbs. The iconic Dukes Pass provides both a significant workout and incredibly rewarding panoramic vistas across Loch Venachar to the Menteith Hills. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might spot deer, red squirrels, or even ospreys, and Highland cattle can sometimes be encountered on tracks.
24
riders
59.5km
02:38
560m
560m
Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure through the Trossachs, covering 37.0 miles (59.5 km) with 1828 feet (557 metres) of elevation gain. This loop from Callander offers a diverse landscape, from challenging climbs to expansive lowland views. You will experience dramatic scenery, with views of lochs and forests as you ascend the iconic Duke's Pass, and pass by the serene Loch Achray. Expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 38 minutes, enjoying the varied terrain.
When planning your ride, be aware that road conditions can vary significantly. While much of the route is suitable for a racebike, some sections, particularly between Callander and Aberfoyle, might have unpaved surfaces or gravel. For this reason, a resilient road bike or a gravel bike would be a good choice to ensure a comfortable ride. Remember that cycling on the boardwalk paths within the Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve is not recommended for your safety and to protect the environment.
This route takes you through the unique ecosystem of the Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve, home to a vast peat bog and offering distant views of surrounding hills. The Trossachs region itself is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a significant part of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. This trail offers a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the area's natural heritage and enjoy a rewarding cycling experience.
Details
Informations
Distance 7.79 km
Uphill 220 m
Downhill 150 m
Weather
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Monday 8 June
13°C
7°C
77 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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