Cyclists are being urged to steer clear of a new woodland bike course while finishing touches are applied to the tracks.
Forest Enterprise Scotland has created a £60,000 skills facility for mountain bikers in woods at Fochabers.
But although construction work is soon to conclude, the team behind the project have implored eager cyclists to “resist temptation” and wait until January before sampling the new tracks.
The government group says the trails and features need time to bed down and stabilise before being used for adventure activities.
Forest Enterprise Scotland’s Calum Murray said: “We know it’s a tough ask, but riders need to resist temptation if they are to get the best use out of the trails.
“Using the skills loop too soon could result in them being damaged before they have even been properly opened – and that would be a huge shame.”
The course has been designed as part of “winding walks” pathway programme, and will allow mountain bikers and BMX riders of all abilities to hone their skills.
There will also be an area where beginners can practice basic moves and more challenging routes where experienced riders can put themselves to the test.
The skills course features a series of small rolling bumps and banked corners in an area roughly the size of a tennis court.
There are three downhill slopes gauged to beginner, intermediate and expert ability levels.
Under the initiative, a maze of trails have been created through the 19th century gardens of the Duke of Gordon, with efforts being made to keep tree loss to a minimum.
Mr Murray added: “We’ve invested £100,000 in developing and upgrading these trails this year, and the skills loop is the final piece in this programme of works.
“It’s a fantastic resource for the area and will give mountain bikers of all ages a focal point for their sport.
“The skills area is ideal for family, school, or outdoor education groups because they can safely enjoy a mountain bike experience on trails.”
Cyclists are asked to refrain from using the new track until at least Tuesday, January 12.