The best walks and hikes around Carrickstone
4.4
(204)
1,941
hikers
111
hikes
Hiking around Carrickstone offers diverse landscapes, blending natural features with historical elements. The region features a variety of trails, from accessible paths around lochs to routes incorporating Roman historical sites. Parkland and tranquil water features like Fannyside Lochs characterize much of the area. These varied terrains provide hiking opportunities suitable for different fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Carrickstone
- The most popular hiking route is Auchinstarry Marina – Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture loop from Dullatur, a 3.3 miles (5.3…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.9
(12)
78
hikers
5.27km
01:28
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
34
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.8
(4)
22
hikers
9.87km
02:36
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
10.4km
02:49
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
15.3km
04:11
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The location of the 'location' pin on the Bing map is incorrect
0
0
The Antonine Wall was a turf wall, built on stone foundations by the Romans, about 20 years after Hadrian's Wall. It stretches from coast to coast across the central belt of Scotland. Croy Hill was a minor fort on the wall.
0
0
These are two really pretty lochs here that are located adjacent to Palacerigg Country Park. There is a sailing club there, fishing and some nice walking trails too. There are acually several combinations of trails here, but if you combine a walk through the park and the lochs, then keep an eye out for the wildlife. It's also a very tranquil place with lovely views across the calm waters to the surrounding hills and countryside.
3
0
Ah, Banton Loch, or as it was once known, Townhead Reservoir. Now, there’s a place that’s brimming with stories. It’s nestled on the east side of Kilsyth in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, a mere 21 kilometres north-east of Glasgow. This man-made marvel, built in 1770 to feed water into the canal, was once the largest reservoir in Scotland. It’s a freshwater lake, impounded by earthwork dams, sitting pretty at 86 metres above sea level. The loch stretches about 1 kilometre in length with a maximum width of about 280 metres1. It’s fed by a number of burns draining the Kilsyth Hills to its north. Now, if you’re a history buff, you’ll be thrilled to know that the battlefield of the 15 August 1645 Battle of Kilsyth between Scottish Royalists and Covenanters is thought to be in the vicinity of the loch. The exact position remains a subject of debate, but it’s a fascinating piece of history nonetheless.
0
0
Croy Hill was a Roman fort,and probable temporary camp
0
0
Created by artist Svetlana Kondakova and Big Red Blacksmiths, the sculpture looks out from the line of the Antonine Wall across the Kelvin Valley towards what the Romans considered ‘barbarian’ territory, beyond the edge of the Roman Empire.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find around Carrickstone?
Carrickstone offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy strolls around tranquil lochs to more challenging routes that explore historical Roman sites. The area features varied parkland and natural landscapes, providing options for different fitness levels and interests. There are over 110 hiking routes available in the region.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking options in Carrickstone?
Yes, Carrickstone has numerous easy trails suitable for families. For a gentle walk, consider the Auchinstarry Marina – Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture loop from Dullatur, which is 3.3 miles (5.3 km) and explores the area around the Roman Head Sculpture on accessible paths.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the Carrickstone area?
Many of the trails around Carrickstone are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the moderate Badger Trail – Fannyside Lochs loop from Cumbernauld, which offers scenic views around the tranquil Fannyside Lochs.
Are there any historical landmarks or Roman sites to explore while hiking?
Absolutely. Carrickstone is rich in historical significance, particularly with its Roman heritage. You can hike routes that incorporate sites like the Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture and Croy Hill Roman Fort. A great option is the Silvanus Roman Head Sculpture – Croy Hill Roman Fort loop from Croy, which is 6.5 miles (10.4 km) and leads directly through these historical Roman sites. You can also visit the Croy Hill Roman Fort highlight directly.
What are the best trails for experiencing the lochs and water features?
The Fannyside Lochs are a prominent natural feature, known for their tranquility and scenic views. The Badger Trail – Fannyside Lochs loop from Cumbernauld is an excellent choice to experience these calm waters and the surrounding countryside. Banton Loch, formerly Townhead Reservoir, is another significant water body in the vicinity.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers near Carrickstone?
While many trails are easy to moderate, there are options for those seeking a longer, more challenging experience. The Bar Hill Roman Fort – Croy Hill Roman Fort loop from Croy is a moderate 9.5 miles (15.3 km) trail with over 230 meters of elevation gain, offering a more demanding hike through historical landscapes.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Carrickstone?
The hiking routes in Carrickstone are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 190 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied parkland, tranquil lochs, and the opportunity to explore historical Roman sites.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
Yes, the area offers several scenic spots. The Meikle Bin Summit is a notable viewpoint, and the Croy Hill Roman Fort also provides elevated views of the surrounding landscape.
Is Carrickstone a good place for dog-friendly walks?
Carrickstone's varied parkland and natural trails make it generally suitable for dog walking. Many routes offer open spaces and natural environments for dogs to enjoy. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local regulations or signage regarding pets on trails.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Carrickstone?
The area is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in autumn. Summer provides longer daylight hours. While winter hiking is possible, be prepared for potentially colder, wetter conditions, and shorter daylight.
Are there any waterfalls near Carrickstone?
Yes, for those interested in water features beyond the lochs, the Colzium Waterfall is a highlight located near Carrickstone, offering a picturesque natural attraction.
What is the total number of hiking routes available in Carrickstone?
There are over 110 hiking routes recorded in the Carrickstone area, catering to a wide range of preferences and skill levels, from easy to difficult.
Most popular attractions around Carrickstone
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
