10 Stunning Walks in Loch Lomond & Trossachs
Lace up your boots and head out for a walk
From short strolls to challenging climbs, there are walks suitable for all abilities in Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park.
1. Balmaha Millennium Forest Path – (for all abilities)
You’ll need your binoculars for this mile-long route through the forest as there’s lots of wildlife to be spotted, including crossbills, siskins and goldcrests, as well as beech trees and the nation’s only large native conifer. Allow yourself around 45 minutes to complete this walk as there are some steep sections along the way.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/images/stories/Looking%20After/PDF/publication%20pdfs/Balmaha%202012_web.pdf
2. The Great Trossachs Path 1 – (moderately difficult)
Starting at Inversnaid, make your way along shared mountain bike paths and roads to Trossachs pier, taking care on the steep rough path that makes up the first section of this route. At just less than 18 miles long, expect this route to take around eight hours to complete so be sure to take plenty of provisions for the journey.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.walkhighlands.wordpress.com/lochlomond/great-trossachs-path-1.shtml
3. The Great Trossachs Path 2 – (easy to moderate)
A little shorter than the first path, this route is 12 miles long and should take you around five hours to complete. It starts from Trossachs pier car park and takes you along the minor roads around Loch Achray to Brig o’Turk where you can stop for a mid-way cuppa and a cake in the tearoom. You’ll then take the shared mountain bike path to Callander.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.walkhighlands.wordpress.com/lochlomond/great-trossachs-path-2.shtml
4. Ben Arthur “The Cobbler” – (moderately difficult)
If you’ve got a head for heights, this iconic mountain route is a must-complete during your stay in Loch Lomond. Ascending 3200 feet, you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking views over Loch Long. Although not given Munro status, Ben Arthur is considered one of Scotland’s most popular peaks.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.walkingbritain.wordpress.com/walks/walks/walk_a/1459/
5. Cashel Forest Walk – (moderately difficult)
For the best scenic views of Loch Lomond, you’ll need to be prepared to climb – but that doesn’t mean you have to be an advanced walker. At three miles long, The Red Loop covers a fairly short distance, albeit with a steep uphill walk. With stunning views along the entire route though, you can’t complain.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.cashel.org.uk/walk-2.html
6. The Aber Trail – (for all abilities)
There’s plenty to see on The Aber Trail which starts at Millennium Hall and ends at Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve. From alder and ash trees to buzzards, wood warblers and tree pipits, it’s the ideal route for nature-lovers. For more information about the local area, head to Trossachs.wordpress.com.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.trossachs.wordpress.com/PDF/The-Aber-Trail.pdf
7. Callander Crags – (strenuous)
This strenuous route covers just over two miles of paths with some rough rock sections and uneven steps – the views from the top of the crags make it well worth it though. It is advisable to bring sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing. You may also find a bottle of water helpful as you’ll be climbing for around 90 minutes. A section of the route is currently closed due to storm damaged trees although it is still possible to access the cairn at the summit.
The route can be downloaded from: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/forest-parks/queen-elizabeth-forest-park/callander-crags
Find out more about the storm damage at: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/forest-parks/queen-elizabeth-forest-park/callander-crags/storm-damage-at-callander-crags
8. Ben A’ an hill path – (strenuous)
This short 3.7 mile hill walk takes you through forest paths before leading you upwards for the final stretch. You’ll be well rewarded for your two hours’ walking with stunning views over Loch Katrine and the surrounding countryside. Stop off at one of the nearby cafes at the Trossachs Pier for well-deserved tea and cake afterwards. Please note that this route is currently diverted due to tree felling and path upgrade works. It is anticipated that the main route will re-open in spring 2016.
The diversion route can be downloaded from: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/forest-parks/queen-elizabeth-forest-park/ben-aan/improvement-programme
9. Ben Lomond – (for all abilities)
With gentle terrain and little navigation required, Ben Lomond is one of the easiest Munros – in fact, it’s so popular with walkers that it’s one of Scotland’s most-climbed hills, second to Ben Nevis. If you’re looking for a more peaceful stroll, there are several alternative routes to try which are less populated, such as the Ptarmigan route which offers a fine descent.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.stevenfallon.wordpress.com/benlomond.html
10. Rob Roy Way – (for experienced walkers)
If a week’s worth of walking around Loch Lomond sounds ideal, then the Rob Roy Way is for you. Starting from Drymen close to the south east corner of Loch Lomond, this Scottish Great Trail can be either 77 or 94 miles dependent on the route option along Loch Tay. You’ll be met with truly breath-taking scenic views along the way. With plenty of accommodation en-route, you can break up this route to suit walking strengths.
The route can be downloaded from: http://www.robroyway.com/walk.html
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