Jim Sutherland organises an annual two-day bikepacking ride in Moray. Here I share 20 photos from this year’s ride on the Dava Way and beyond
Meet Jim. He’s the man behind the concept and an inspiration to so many who love exploring the outdoors.
The ride was about bringing people together, and my seven-year-old and me were never left behind.
Matthew’s favourite bit of reading along the Dava Way was about the skeleton found on the moors in the 1920s.
This rustic fencepost is on part of the Dava Way that is for walkers only – pushing the bikes was tough.
A truly social occasion in the evening as everybody gathered around the fire pit at the Ace Adventures campsite.
Father and son at the high point on the former railway line between Grantown and Forres.
Friendly faces – just two of our crew who were always encouraging as Matthew completed his longest ride to date.
One of the other young riders framed in the window of a former workmen’s hut alongside the old railway route.
Through the treetops – the camping area at Auchnagairn seen from the skies.
The Moray Trails Twenty-20 riders re-group in Lynmore woods on a fine Saturday morning.
Our bikes (and my trailer) at the woodland camping area.
The campsite even has a sociable kitchen space complete with sink and gas barbecue – perfect for sausages!
Dava Way Association volunteers are keen to include nods to the route’s former use, such as this Dava station sign.
The Halfway Hut – another former workmen’s shelter – is now an information point and picnic spot.
Matthew signed the visitor book on the way back to Grantown.
There’s a lot of action going on at this gate – there are a few to be found along the way.
A happy face framed by the hut window – and a random Instagram-style pose!
The lichen hanging off the trees at the campsite was beautiful to see.
On the return we took a shortcut through the forest – where I had to drag the trailer over the heather…
A proud moment as Matthew completes the weekend of riding, a total of about 38 miles offroad. Well done!
- Read more here: Pride and joy at Moray Trails biking and camping weekend