The best walks and hikes around Craigvinean Forest

Craigvinean Forest offers a good mix of trails for different fitness levels. You'll find a majority of easy and moderate routes, perfect for a relaxed day out, often following the River Braan. There are also a few more demanding hikes that involve steeper climbs and reward you with expansive views.

Yes, the area is great for family outings. Many of the shorter, flatter trails are ideal for walking with children. For a memorable and easy walk, consider the Ossian's Cave – Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors loop from Inver. It's a relatively short route that explores some of the most scenic parts of The Hermitage.

Dogs are generally welcome in Craigvinean Forest, but they should be kept under control at all times. The forest is a habitat for wildlife, including red squirrels and ground-nesting birds, so it's important to be mindful of your surroundings and respect the natural environment.

The most famous waterfall is the Black Linn Falls on the River Braan, which you can see from Ossian's Hall of Mirrors within The Hermitage. The viewpoint from the folly provides a dramatic and impressive perspective of the roaring water. The area around the Rumbling Bridge also offers fantastic views of the river cascading through the gorge.

For spectacular views over Dunkeld and the River Tay, the viewpoint at Pine Cone Point is a well-known spot. Although the main trail to the structure has been closed, alternative routes like the Torryvald Trail lead to a shelter offering similarly stunning panoramic vistas. Many trails throughout the forest open up to beautiful views of the surrounding Perthshire landscape.

Craigvinean Forest is beautiful year-round, but many visitors find it particularly stunning in autumn. During this season, the mix of larch, beech, and pine trees creates a spectacular display of color. Spring is also a lovely time when the woodland floor is covered in wildflowers, while summer offers long days for exploring the extensive trail network.

Yes, there are several car parks that provide access to the trails. The main car park for The Hermitage, managed by the National Trust for Scotland, is a popular starting point. Other smaller parking areas can be found near different trailheads. It's a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.

The town of Dunkeld is the main gateway to the forest and is well-served by both bus and train services. From the town, it's a pleasant walk to the main trailheads for The Hermitage and other routes into Craigvinean Forest, making it an accessible destination for those traveling without a car.

Craigvinean is one of Scotland's oldest managed forests, with its name meaning "crag of the goats" in Gaelic. Its history is closely tied to the Dukes of Atholl, who began planting millions of conifers, particularly larch trees, in the 18th century. This established the area as part of the 'Big Tree Country'. The forest also contains historical follies like Ossian's Hall and Ossian's Cave, built to enhance the picturesque landscape.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the enchanting atmosphere of the ancient woodland, especially the towering Douglas firs in The Hermitage. The well-maintained paths, beautiful riverside scenery along the River Braan, and the dramatic waterfalls are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Yes, the forest has an excellent network of paths that create numerous circular walking opportunities. You can find loops of varying lengths, from short strolls around The Hermitage to longer, more moderate hikes that take you deeper into the woods and up to viewpoints. A good example of a longer loop is the Curved Bench by the River Tay loop from Inver, which combines woodland and riverside scenery.

Ossian's Hall of Mirrors is a historic folly, a small ornamental building, constructed in 1757. It is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the powerful Black Linn Falls. From the inside, a sliding panel reveals a dramatic view of the waterfall, creating a surprising and impressive experience for visitors exploring The Hermitage.