The best walks and hikes around Loch Lee

Yes, the area offers trails suitable for families. For a shorter, relatively flat option, consider the Queen's Well Monument – Invermark Castle Ruins loop from Tarfside. This walk is just over 8 km and takes you past key historical sites without any major climbs, making it a great choice for an afternoon outing.

The main starting point for most hikes, including the popular circular walk and the route to Mount Keen, is the public car park at the end of the public road in Glen Esk, near Invermark. It's a well-known spot, but it can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Glen Esk. However, this is an active farming and sporting estate with livestock and ground-nesting birds. It is essential to keep your dog under close control at all times, and on a lead, particularly between April and July during the bird breeding season and whenever livestock are present.

For the best waterfall views, the Glen Esk Waterfalls & Invermark Castle loop is an excellent choice. This route provides fantastic views of the Falls of Unich and the Fall of Damff. The falls are particularly impressive after a period of heavy rain.

The Queen's Well is a granite monument built to commemorate a visit by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1861, where they stopped to drink from a spring. You can visit this historic spot on the challenging Queen's Well Monument – Mount Keen summit loop from Invermark Castle, which includes it as part of the ascent to the Munro.

The trails offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find moderate, relatively flat circular walks around the loch and through the lower glen, such as the Invermark Castle Ruins – Loch Lee loop from Tarfside. For experienced hikers, there are also difficult ascents into the mountains, like the climb up Mount Keen, the most easterly Munro.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning scenery, the mix of lochside paths and mountain climbs, and the sense of tranquility. The well-maintained paths and historical points of interest like Invermark Castle are also frequently mentioned highlights.

Loch Lee and Glen Esk are rich in wildlife. Birdwatchers have the chance to spot peregrine falcons and golden eagles in the skies. On the ground, you might see red deer, especially on the higher slopes. The area is also known for its flora, with wild primroses appearing in the spring.

Yes, the most prominent historical site is the ruins of Invermark Castle, a 16th-century tower house located at the head of Glen Esk. Many of the walking routes start near or pass directly by these atmospheric ruins, which once defended the glen from cattle raiders.

There are over a dozen designated hiking routes to explore around Loch Lee. These range from easy lochside strolls to challenging full-day Munro ascents, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels and interests.

Spring and summer are fantastic times to visit, with wildflowers in bloom and longer daylight hours. Autumn offers beautiful colours across the glen. Winter hiking is possible for experienced and properly equipped walkers, as conditions can be severe with snow and ice. Always check the weather forecast before you go.