4.7
(1006)
8,810
hikers
214
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Carlops offer access to the northern part of the Pentland Hills Regional Park, characterized by rolling hills and diverse landscapes. The region features picturesque paths around the North Esk Reservoir and pleasant riverside walks along the River North Esk. Hikers can explore valleys, rock formations like Witches' Leap, and unspoilt woodlands, providing varied terrain for easy excursions.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
5.0
(3)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
17
hikers
5.95km
01:41
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(3)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
12
hikers
5.55km
01:48
240m
240m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
10
hikers
6.23km
01:40
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Baddinsgill Reservoir is a charming little reservoir that rests peacefully in a picturesque valley along Thieves' Road, within the Pentland Hills. It's the perfect location to catch your breath and enjoy a picnic amongst some of Scotland's finest scenery.
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Delightful walk along River North Esk. Muddy paths after the rain meant the peaty water was gushing and the waterfall splendid! This is where Allan Ramsay found the inspiration to write 'The Gentle Shepherd' and we were able to visit Sandy's Cave and Peggy's pool.
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Baddinsgill Reservoir opened in 1930. It's a good starting place for a loop of the hills above.
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Mount Maw is a prominent summit with a trig point at 535 m. The southern aspect of the summit means you get amazing views south over the Southern Uplands and around the rest of the Pentland Hills.
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Mount Maw is a prominent summit with a trig point at 535 m. The southern aspect of the summit means you get amazing views south over the Southern Uplands and around the rest of the Pentland Hills.
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Forestry business with parking spaces. Great access point to Baddinsgill Reservoir and the surrounding hills.
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North Esk Reservoir is an easy 5k walk from Carlops village. You can park your car in the village and choose one of the two main paths or do a circular walk. Easy to intermediate terrain with some steep hilly parts as well. The reservoir is a gem.
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Carlops provides a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 50 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the area features more than 200 hiking tours, catering to various experience levels within the Pentland Hills Regional Park.
Yes, Carlops is an excellent starting point for easy circular walks. You can explore routes like the North Esk Reservoir β North Esk Reservoir loop from Carlops, which offers scenic views around the picturesque reservoir. Another option is the View of Rural Landscape loop from Carlops, providing a pleasant circuit through the local scenery.
Absolutely. The area around Carlops features charming waterfalls. A notable one is Peggy's Pool Waterfall, which you can experience on the Peggy's Pool Waterfall β Waterfall and Old Mill loop from Carlops. This trail leads through unspoilt woodland to this beautiful hidden spot.
Many easy trails in Carlops are well-suited for families, offering manageable distances and gentle elevation changes. Routes like the View of Rural Landscape β Waterfall and Old Mill loop from Carlops are popular choices, showcasing rural scenery and natural features that can engage younger hikers.
Yes, Carlops offers several dog-friendly easy hikes. The diverse landscapes, including reservoir paths and riverside sections, provide varied terrain for you and your dog to enjoy. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially around livestock, and follow local guidelines for responsible pet ownership.
Easy hikes around Carlops allow you to discover several natural features. You can explore the picturesque Glencorse Reservoir or the quiet Loganlea Reservoir. The area also features unique rock formations like Witches' Leap, steeped in local folklore, and the geological interest of Windy Gowl, a deep meltwater channel.
The easy trails in Carlops are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Carlops serves as a convenient starting point for many hikes, and parking is generally available within or near the village. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot, or by checking local signage upon arrival.
Peggy's Pool is a beautiful, hidden spot featuring a small waterfall and unspoilt woodland, said to have inspired Allan Ramsay's 'The Gentle Shepherd'. You can indeed reach it on an easy hike via the Peggy's Pool Waterfall β Waterfall and Old Mill loop from Carlops, which is a 4.3 km trail.
While Carlops is known for its rolling hills, many easy trails offer pleasant vistas of the rural landscape. For more expansive views, you might consider routes that skirt the lower slopes of hills like Castlelaw Hill or Turnhouse Hill, which are accessible from the wider Pentland Hills area.
Carlops offers enjoyable easy hiking opportunities throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides longer daylight hours, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, the trails can be beautiful, though conditions may vary. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Carlops village itself has local establishments where you can find refreshments and meals after your hike. These provide a convenient stop to relax and refuel, often within easy reach of the trailheads.


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