The best walks and hikes in Clackmannanshire

Yes, Clackmannanshire is a great place to walk with your dog. Many trails, especially in areas like Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Devilla Forest, are suitable for dogs. However, always be mindful of livestock, particularly in the Ochil Hills, and keep your dog on a lead where required.

For a gentle and scenic walk, the Gartmorn Dam & Nature Reserve loop is a popular choice. It's a relatively flat 3.3-mile (5.4 km) path around Scotland's oldest reservoir, perfect for families and birdwatching. The park also has accessible facilities.

A fantastic circular route with moderate difficulty is The Law, Ben Cleuch & Ben Ever loop from Tillicoultry — Ochil Hills. This trail covers multiple peaks in the Ochils, offering a rewarding challenge and excellent views over approximately 6.8 miles (11 km).

Absolutely. Alva Glen is famous for its series of waterfalls. The Craighorn Fall, Alva Glen – Smugglers' Cave, Alva Glen loop from Alva is a highly-regarded easy walk that takes you through a spectacular gorge to see Craighorn Fall and the hidden cascade at the Smugglers' Cave.

For a strenuous day in the hills, the Ben Cleuch summit – The Law (Ochil Hills) loop from Clackmannanshire is a difficult hike covering over 10 miles (16.5 km). It involves significant elevation gain to the highest point in the Ochils, rewarding you with panoramic views.

For expansive views across the Central Belt, any ascent of the main Ochil peaks is worthwhile. Dumyat, on the edge of the range, is a local favourite for its superb views over Stirling. For a different perspective, the trails around Castle Campbell provide stunning views of the fortress nestled in Dollar Glen.

Yes, the Dollar Glen & Castle Campbell loop from Dollar — Ochil Hills is a must. This easy walk leads you through a beautiful wooded glen directly to the magnificent 15th-century Castle Campbell, historically known as 'Castle Gloom'.

The hike to Ben Cleuch is considered difficult due to the steep and sustained ascent. For example, the popular Ben Cleuch & the Ochil Hills loop from Tillicoultry involves nearly 700 meters of climbing. While challenging, it is a very rewarding hike for experienced walkers with good fitness.

Gartmorn Dam Country Park is an excellent starting point with dedicated parking. It serves as the trailhead for several paths around the reservoir. Similarly, the main car parks for trails starting in Alva, Tillicoultry, and Dollar are good options for accessing the Ochil Hills.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic scenery of the Ochil Hills, the charm of the historic glens like Alva and Dollar, and the peaceful, well-maintained paths at Gartmorn Dam.

There are over 220 hiking routes to explore in Clackmannanshire. The trails cater to all abilities, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's a path for every type of walker.