The best walks and hikes around Cleish And Blairadam

Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly. The woodland trails in Blairadam Forest are great for walks, but it's best to keep your dog on a lead, especially as you might encounter wildlife like red squirrels. When hiking in the more open Cleish Hills, be mindful of any grazing livestock and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

For a straightforward and enjoyable family outing, the Seamark loop from Harran Hill is an excellent choice. It's a short, easy walk with minimal climbing. Alternatively, Lochore Meadows Country Park offers over 1,200 acres with accessible paths, a loch, and plenty of space for a family day out.

For Blairadam Forest, there are several informal parking areas and lay-bys near the main trail entrances, particularly for routes starting from Kelty. For the Cleish Hills, parking is more limited. Some hikers use the small car park at the church for accessing Bishop Hill, while others find roadside spots near trailheads. Always park considerately and do not block access.

The region is excellent for circular walks. Most of the waymarked trails in Blairadam Forest are designed as loops of varying lengths. In the Cleish Hills, you can combine summits like Dumglow, Wether Hill, and Park Hill to create a rewarding circular hillwalking day with fantastic views.

Many trails, especially in Blairadam Forest, pass by remnants of the area's industrial past. You can discover old mine workings, former railway bridges, and the restored Lochornie Burn Bridge. The Iron-Rich Stream and Tunnel loop from Kelty is a great option for seeing some of these features up close.

For expansive, panoramic views, the trails in the Cleish Hills are unmatched. The ascent of Dumglow, the highest point, rewards you with stunning vistas over Loch Leven, the Lomond Hills, and across to the Firth of Forth. On a clear day, the scenery is truly spectacular.

There are over 270 hiking routes to explore in the region. These range from easy, waymarked forest paths to challenging, rugged hill walks, offering plenty of options for all fitness and experience levels.

The trails around Cleish and Blairadam are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of peaceful woodlands in Blairadam Forest and the superb views from the more open Cleish Hills.

While the immediate Cleish and Blairadam area isn't primarily known for large waterfalls, you will find charming streams and burns throughout the forests. For a more dedicated waterfall walk, the highly-rated Maspie Den Walk & Waterfall is a short drive away and features a beautiful wooded glen with several cascades.

The trails in Blairadam Forest are generally well-maintained forest paths and tracks. You'll be walking through a mix of spruce and broadleaved woods. While the paths are mostly solid, some sections can become muddy and slippery, especially after periods of rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Besides the main forest and hills, there are several other popular spots.

Lomond Hills Regional Park is a major local attraction, offering a vast area with rocky outcrops and extensive trail networks.

Bishop hill walk is another favorite, known for its steep but rewarding path that quickly opens up to provide extensive views.

For a quieter woodland experience, many enjoy exploring Keils Den, a beautiful nature walk along a stream.