Mountain biking in Scotland is now a national success story. It attracts elite riders, grassroots participants, international tourists, and local communities.
It’s estimated that 2.8 million mountain biking visits are made to the Scottish countryside each year, with around 7% of the adult population participating.
What began as a niche activity has grown into a thriving national sport and recreational pursuit, contributing significantly to the health, economy, and global reputation of the country.
Behind this transformation is a long-term strategic vision, powerful community engagement, and a deep respect for Scotland’s unique access rights and natural environment. And at the heart of it all is Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS), an organisation that is part of Scottish Cycling - the sport's governing body that is helping to lead the charge.
A strategy that delivers
Founded in 2009, DMBinS was created to guide the development of mountain biking across Scotland with the approach to balance the needs of the sport, the environment, and wider society.
Working with sportscotland, Scottish Cycling, Scottish Government, land managers, Local Authorities, and community groups, DMBinS is currently delivering the 2023–2025 strategy to ensure the sport continues to grow sustainably.
This strategic leadership has helped foster a network of over 60 purpose-built trail centres and downhill tracks across the country. From the adrenaline-pumping descents of Fort William & Lochaber – which has been a UCI World Cup staple – to trails for every type of rider in places like Kirroughtree, Laggan, Glentress and Tarland - there is something for everyone.
In addition to this there are more than 50 pump tracks which are helping to create an accessible and progressive infrastructure that is quickly becoming one of the cornerstones of Scotland’s mountain biking scene.
Open access and responsible riding
Thanks to Scotland’s progressive right of responsible access, people on bikes can enjoy a huge variety of off-road trails and wild experiences. This freedom comes with responsibility, and DMBinS has played a key role in helping riders understand and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
The ‘Do the Ride Thing’ campaign – developed by DMBinS in partnership with NatureScot and other stakeholders offers practical guidance for mountain bikers to ensure that trails are shared respectfully with other users, and that sensitive environments are protected.
The commitment to responsible riding ensures Scotland’s trail network, whether official or informal, remains sustainable and accessible for future generations.
Mountain biking for everyone: inclusion, wellbeing and leadership
As mountain biking in Scotland grows in popularity so does its role in delivering meaningful social outcomes. DMBinS has been at the forefront of making mountain biking more inclusive, accessible, and supportive for people from all walks of life.
Mountain biking plays a key role in supporting physical and mental health, especially among young people and those in rural areas. Across the country, dedicated volunteers support local clubs and events, helping more people to get on bikes and stay active.
Trail Associations (grassroots groups that maintain and develop local trails) are growing in number and influence, working closely with land managers to ensure trails are safe, sustainable, and enjoyable. This togetherness of community and stewardship is at the heart of Scottish mountain biking’s long-term success.
Trial Therapy for mental health recovery
One standout initiative is Trail Therapy – a pioneering programme using the power of mountain biking and nature to support mental health recovery. Developed in collaboration with NHS professionals and mental health organisations, Trail Therapy is being rolled out through a network of hubs across Scotland.
The sessions offer supported rides in natural environments, helping participants rebuild confidence, self-esteem, and resilience. The combination of physical activity, outdoor connection, and social support has shown real impact in accelerating and sustaining people’s recovery from mental ill-health.
DMBinS has also been a leading advocate for accessible cycling. The organisation works with local partners to support adapted bike programmes that introduce mountain biking to riders with physical or cognitive impairments. From adaptive trikes to handcycles, more people can experience the thrill and freedom of off-road riding.
A key goal of the nationally recognised British Cycling Mountain Bike Leadership qualifications giving people the skills and confidence to safely lead others on trails, whether in community settings, schools, clubs or outdoor centres.
Female leaders
By providing tailored support, mentoring, and progression pathways, Rider2Leader empowers women to become qualified leaders and role models in their communities. The programme is building a more welcoming and representative mountain biking culture – one where everyone can see themselves as part of the journey.
These programmes are all supported by the Scottish MTB Health Fund which is a fund of the Scottish Cycling Foundation that supports DMBinS’s work to use mountain biking to make Scotland a happier and healthier nation.
Adding to this is the Mountain Bike Innovation Centre which is currently in development in the Tweed Valley. Set to open in 2027, the centre will offer facilities for product development, athlete training, trail testing, and commercial innovation.
The Innovation Centre is a partnership project involving DMBinS and being led by South of Scotland Enterprise and Edinburgh Napier University. It represents a major step forward for Scotland’s place in the global mountain biking landscape.
Community at the core
From volunteer-run events and club rides to maintenance days and skills sessions, it is the collective energy, passion, and vision of the mountain biking community that has helped the sport thrive.
sportscotland, Scottish Cycling, DMBinS, local authorities, and land managers have all invested in the sport, but the return has been multiplied by thousands of hours of volunteer time and local leadership. The partnership approach blending national strategy with grassroots action is what makes Scottish mountain biking successful and sustainable.
The trail ahead
As Scottish mountain biking continues to evolve, it remains rooted in the values that have made it a success: responsible access, community support, world-class infrastructure, and strategic leadership.
Whether you’re a seasoned downhill racer, a weekend trail rider, or someone looking for a healthier, happier lifestyle, Scotland is the place to ride.
From hills to high streets, and pump tracks to policy rooms, mountain biking is delivering for Scotland – and the best is yet to come.
More Information
- For more information on DMBinS
- For more information on where to ride and responsible access on MTBs
- If you are interested in helping others enjoy mountain biking in Scotland then become a MTB leader
