The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Gartmore

There are over 20 family-friendly hiking routes around Gartmore, with 7 of them being easy and suitable for beginners or those with very young children. These trails offer manageable distances and gentle paths for everyone to enjoy.

Yes, several routes are ideal for toddlers and pushchairs due to their gentle gradients and shorter distances. The Riverside Path – Faerie Bridge loop from Gartmore is an easy 3.4 km path, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Another great option is the Riverside Path – Doon Hill Fairy Trail loop from Gartmore, which is 5.1 km and leads through the enchanting Doon Hill.

The family-friendly trails around Gartmore offer a diverse landscape of forests, rivers, and tranquil lochs. You can explore areas like Gartmore Wood, a beautiful deciduous woodland. Many routes provide scenic views, such as those towards Loch Lomond from Conic Hill or Loch Katrine from Ben A'an. The Faerie Bridge – View from the Auld Bridge loop from Aberfoyle is a popular choice for its varied landscapes.

Many of the family-friendly routes around Gartmore are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. For example, the Riverside Path – Faerie Bridge loop from Gartmore and the Riverside Path – Doon Hill Fairy Trail loop from Gartmore are both excellent circular options that are easy and enjoyable for families.

Gartmore is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and blooming flora. Autumn brings stunning fall colours to the woodlands. Even in winter, many of the easy, low-level paths are accessible, though appropriate warm and waterproof clothing is essential.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, including those around Gartmore. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Always check specific trail signage for any restrictions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the diverse scenery ranging from riversides to loch views, and the well-maintained paths that make it accessible for families of all ages.

Parking is generally available in and around Gartmore village. Many trailheads for family-friendly routes, especially those starting from Gartmore or nearby Aberfoyle, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking options.

Yes, Gartmore village itself is picturesque and home to the community-owned Black Bull Pub, which is a great spot for a break or a meal. Nearby Aberfoyle also offers various cafes and eateries. Many family-friendly routes are designed so you can easily access these amenities before or after your walk.

While the immediate family-friendly trails from Gartmore focus more on riverside and woodland walks, the wider area offers routes with impressive features. For a more moderate family adventure, the View from Creag Dhubh – Falls of Little Fawn loop from Aberfoyle provides views of Creag Dhubh and the Falls of Little Fawn. Another option is the Falls of Little Fawn – Craigmore Viewpoint loop from Aberfoyle, which also features the Falls of Little Fawn and the Craigmore Viewpoint.

Given Scotland's changeable weather, layering is key. We recommend waterproof and windproof outer layers, comfortable walking shoes or boots, and moisture-wicking clothing. Even on sunny days, a light jacket is advisable. For winter, add warm hats, gloves, and extra layers. Always check the local forecast before heading out.