The best walks and hikes around Harperrig Reservoir

Yes, the trails around Harperrig Reservoir are generally dog-friendly. However, it's a good idea to keep your dog on a lead, especially as the area is a habitat for wildlife like otters and ground-nesting birds. You may also encounter livestock on paths that follow old drovers' roads.

Yes, there is a small car park available near the start of the main trails by the reservoir, including the one leading to Cairns Castle. This car park can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

While many of the main hill routes are moderate, there are gentler options suitable for families. The paths directly along the reservoir's shoreline offer a relatively flat and scenic walk. For a dedicated family outing with lots of facilities, the nearby Beecraigs Country Park is a popular choice, offering varied trails and a visitor centre.

Yes, it is possible to walk a loop that incorporates large sections of the reservoir's shoreline. A great option for this is the East Cairn Hill – Harperrig Reservoir loop from Cairns Castle, which combines a scenic walk along the water with a climb for wider views.

Reaching the reservoir directly by public transport is challenging as there are no bus stops at the main trailhead. The nearest villages with bus services from Edinburgh are Kirknewton and Balerno, but they are still several miles away, requiring a long walk or a taxi to reach the reservoir itself. Driving is the most practical option.

The area is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for Eurasian otters near the water's edge. The reservoir is also a key site for birdwatching, with gulls, ducks, and geese often present, particularly on Gull Island. The surrounding hills and moorland support a variety of typical Scottish upland species.

Yes, the most prominent historical feature is the ruin of Cairns Castle, a 15th-century tower house that juts into the reservoir. Many trails, such as the Cairns Castle & East Cairn Hill loop, pass directly by it. The area also features the Cauldstane Slap, an old drovers' road that crosses the Pentland Hills.

Trail conditions vary. You'll find well-defined shoreline paths, grassy tracks through open fields, and rougher, sometimes boggy, paths on the higher moorland sections. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended, especially after rain or when tackling the hill routes.

Yes, for experienced hikers looking for a challenge, there are several demanding routes. The East Cairn Hill – Baddinsgill Reservoir loop from Kirknewton is a difficult hike of over 25 km that takes you deeper into the Pentland Hills, offering a full day of strenuous walking with significant elevation gain.

Yes, activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking are possible in Harperrig Reservoir. However, it is also a popular spot for fishing. If you plan to use the water, please be considerate of anglers, especially during the fishing season which typically runs from mid-March to early October.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the tops of the hills, the sense of tranquility, and the mix of shoreline and moorland scenery. The presence of historic Cairns Castle is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

The main hiking routes around Harperrig Reservoir itself are not known for significant waterfalls. The landscape is more defined by the open water of the loch and the rolling hills. For a walk featuring a waterfall, you might consider exploring the area around Mid Calder, where you can find the Gibbon Jaw waterfall.