Walks around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Natural Park: The Ultimate Guide
Explore the beauty of Loch Lomond on foot with our guide on the best walks.
Loch Lomond is world-known for its stunning scenery. From snow-tipped peaks to the sparkling waters of the Loch and the miles of rolling emerald hills, it’s a spectacular place to visit on your trip to Scotland.
To help you discover hidden valleys, secret waterfalls and glorious patches of woodland, we’ve put together a list of our favourite walking trails in Loch Lomond. Pack an extra pair of socks, sunscreen and some refreshments and let’s set off on an adventure around the bonnie banks.
Before we get started, make sure to read our blog post all about how to pack for a Scottish excursion – our weather can be unpredictable in any season, so it’s best to be prepared for anything.
Conic Hill
This walk typically takes around 90 minutes and is fantastic for some beautiful views around Loch Lomond and some of its iconic islands. From Balmaha to the high point of Conic Hill, the walk can be steep in some places which might be challenging for some, but the rewards are so worth it! As this is a popular walk in Loch Lomond, the trail might be busy so keep that in mind when planning your day out. Although Conic Hill is not a Munro, it still has some great views that make every step to the top worthwhile.
Craigie Fort
Also starting in Balmaha, this trail takes you in the opposite direction of the Conic Hill walk and takes around 60 minutes. It’s a much easier walk until a sharp incline at the end which offers views of Loch Lomond’s Inchcailloch Island from the rocky peak.
This walk takes you through a delightful woodland trail where, if you’re lucky, you might spot Scotland’s famous red squirrel. For more information on the kind of wildlife you can see around Loch Lomond, check out our blog post.
Drymen Viewpoint
This walk is a fantastic choice for those hoping to explore by bike, as the trail can be walked or cycled easily. Starting off in the village of Drymen, a walk around here has something everyone can enjoy and various hills and Munros can be accessed from here for those a little more adventurous in their exploration of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
Curious about more cycle trails around Loch Lomond? We have a blog post all about cycling around Loch Lomond.
Inchcailloch Island
Next on our list is Inchcailloch Island. A trip to Loch Lomond wouldn’t be complete without a wander around this beautiful little island located in the middle of the loch. From the summit of the island, you can soak in panoramic views of Ben Lomond and Conic Hill, a perfect spot for snapping some fantastic photos for your Instagram. Check out our blog post on all the best places to snap some scroll-stopping photos.
The island can be reached via two locations via ferry from Luss and Balmaha. From Cameron House, Luss is around a 10-minute drive or you can catch a bus from Duck Bay to the bypass. Find out more about how to get there on Google Maps. From Balmaha, head to the boatyard and catch a ferry to the island. To find out more about the ferry service to Inchcailoch Island, visit their website and see pricing and operation times.
Ben Lomond
For most visitors to Loch Lomond who desire to explore every peak in the area, Ben Lomond should be on that list. Munro is as iconic as it is popular. Scotland’s most southerly Munro, the summit offers one of the best views across Loch Lomond. At a height of 3,196 feet or 974 metres, and a distance of 7 miles, the hike up to the take typically takes 4.5 to 6 hours.
Keep in mind that this is a busy hike, so account for stopping and starting as you pass groups. There are a few trails up but the safest and most popular one is signposted. For more adventurous hill walkers, some different paths will allow you to climb up the jagged peaks. Ensure you do research and have all the necessary equipment before attempting these more challenging routes.
You can travel to the starting point of Ben Lomond via car, bus or water ferry. Please note that the car park costs £5 to park for the day and the machine only accepts coins. The car park can fill up quickly, so ensure you get there early to secure your spot. Parking illegally at the site can result in fines and, more seriously, may prevent emergency vehicles from reaching the area if required. There is an overflow car park that is well signposted if there are no spots left in the main one when you arrive.
Duncryne Hill
A favourite walk of Scottish climber, author and broadcaster Tom Weir who lived nearby for many years. The hike starts near Gartocharn and boasts stunning views of Loch Lomond from the South with Ben Lomond visible in the distance. DunCryne Hill, or the ‘Dumpling’, is a private walk that has been opened to the public as an agreement between the farmer who owns the land and the Scottish Executive Environmental and Rural Affairs Department, so please respect the land of the owner to preserve its beauty.
You can reach the Dumpling from the Old Military Road, between Balloch and Drymen turn into Duncryne Road in the village of Gartocharn. There is a layby on the left-hand side where you can park – if this is full, park in the village and walk from there. From the layby, the walk is only half a mile long so perfect for those new to hiking or those short on time.
The footpath has recently been resurfaced and is now a lot less muddy and easier to walk.
Beinn Dubh
Located at the West Point of Loch Lomond, Beinn Dubh is the second-highest peak on our list of walks. Starting at the picturesque village of Luss, this hike offers a fantastic hike to the top – reaching 657m at its peak. Of course, you don’t have to climb all the way up as fantastic views can be seen on the way up, but the view from the very top will be worth it!
The climb to the top will take you around 3 hours, depending on weather conditions, your fitness level and how busy the trail is.
In terms of parking, there are two car parks in Luss you can use but, as always, try to arrive early to grab a spot as they can fill up quickly – especially in the warmer months. There is a toilet in the car park and also the chance to grab some supplies like water and snacks at the nearby shop.
Although the first hill you have to conquer is relatively gentle, it only gets more difficult from there, so keep that in mind if you have children with you – little legs have to work much harder! If you’re looking for more things to do as a family in Loch Lomond, check out our blog post on ways to spend a family day out in Loch Lomond.
Unwind at Cameron House
When the day is done, the views have been admired and you’re ready to relax, retire to Cameron House where luxury rooms, calming spa treatments, and decadent bars and restaurants await you.
Discover our rooms and suites for an unrivalled stay in Loch Lomond and book your stay as you explore every magnificent walking trail and spectacular viewpoint in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.