Inverness Bike Trails opening event rides into town

The Highland Council are delighted to be part of the official opening event of the Inverness Royal Academy Bike Trails to be held on Saturday 18 January 2025.

The new trails located at Inverness Royal Academy are designed and built to MTB specifications to ensure an exciting, challenging and safe trails for all riders. The vision for the trails was to create a vibrant facility in an urban environment, which is visited by groups and individuals daily. With young people taking ownership and responsibility for the facility. It is hoped to inspire people to use it during the school day, in the evenings and at weekends, as well as through organised group sessions. 

Inverness Royal Academy Bike Trails is funded by The Highland Council, Sport Scotland and by many other public fundraising efforts.

Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “The Highlands is fast becoming renowned for cycling and outdoor pursuits and the development of the Bike Trails in Inverness is fundamental to continuing to nurture and grow biking enthusiasts and potentially many more professional riders for generations to come. 

“A special thanks go to IRA Teacher, Jane Chisholm and all the Officers involved in making the aspirations of our young people a reality, their dedication and tenacity to build the facilities are being realised with thanks to a broad range of partners for their financial support and specialised expertise to create this new facility.

“I am sure that the new trails will offer endless hours of fun and excitement, whilst developing new skills for many people in the years to come.”

Inverness Royal Academy, Head Teacher Gordon Piper said: “It’s great to see Mrs Chisholm’s 6 year ambition come to life. The Bike Track has always been about widening access to cycling, encouraging under-represented groups and spreading the mental, social and emotional benefits of being outdoors and the development of an on-site facility will continue to expand what we can offer.

“The mountain bike trails will develop our volunteers and young workforce too, creating pathways for careers in the outdoor sector.  We are sure our young people will be proud of their trails; will take on the responsibility for it and will develop their technical skills and leadership qualities while enhancing their emotional and social wellbeing.”