The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Loch Tarsan
4.5
(143)
951
hikers
6
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Loch Tarsan are situated on Scotland's Cowal Peninsula, offering diverse terrain for outdoor activities. The region features a freshwater loch, surrounded by rolling hills and dense woodlands. Paths follow the lochside, extend through forests, and ascend to viewpoints, providing varied landscapes for hikers.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Loch Tarsan
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Fallen Silver Fir Tree – Puck's Glen loop from Rashfield, a 3.2 miles (5.1 km)…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.7
(15)
81
hikers
5.14km
01:30
130m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(14)
66
hikers
5.52km
01:36
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
7.97km
02:14
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(21)
95
hikers
5.94km
01:42
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful garden with great views and paths. Really worth a visit, especially when the Rhododendrons are in bloom. Only 15min by bike from Dunoon!
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Turn left when you reach the information board and follow the tarmac pathway all the way back to the start point at Puck's Glen Car park
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Continue down to the bottom near the information board. Be careful if you have a dog as it is quite near the busy road here. Across the road is Benmore Gardens if you want to find the cafe or combine a visit. There is also another walk beside the river you can merge with here.
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You will pass a huge fallen tree from the 1998 gales weighing 10 tons apparently! The original path crossed the tree using a footbridge. Sadly this is closed due to repair work but there is a pathway around d the tree
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Turn left and follow the path down through the forest
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Just keep following the forest road, on past the marker for the blue path to turn off (unless you want to shorten your walk) until you reach the orange and blue marker point
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Loch Tarsan?
There are 6 dog-friendly hiking trails around Loch Tarsan featured in this guide, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion.
Are there easy dog-friendly walks suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the area offers several easy dog-friendly walks. For example, the Benmore Botanic Garden – Fallen Silver Fir Tree loop from Rashfield is a shorter, easy option, perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog.
Can I find dog-friendly trails with waterfalls or unique natural features?
Absolutely. The Fallen Silver Fir Tree – Puck's Glen loop from Rashfield takes you through Puck's Glen, an enchanting woodland known for its captivating scenery and beautiful waterfalls, which dogs often enjoy exploring.
Are there any circular dog-friendly routes around Loch Tarsan?
Many of the trails are circular, allowing for varied scenery without retracing your steps. The Fallen Silver Fir Tree loop from Rashfield is a great example of a circular route that offers a pleasant walk for you and your dog.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in this region?
The region around Loch Tarsan offers diverse terrain, from gentle lochside paths to more rugged sections through rolling hills and dense woodlands. You'll find a mix of well-maintained trails and natural forest floors, suitable for various paw types.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that pass by notable attractions?
Yes, the Hiking loop from Benmore Botanic Garden allows you to explore the beautiful surroundings of the Benmore Botanic Garden, which features a wide array of plant species and offers additional trails. Please check the garden's specific dog policies before visiting.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Loch Tarsan?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Loch Tarsan, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the stunning natural features like Puck's Glen, and the overall peaceful atmosphere, making it a wonderful place to hike with dogs.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes available?
While most trails are easy, there is a moderate option for those seeking a bit more challenge. The Hiking loop from Benmore Botanic Garden is the longest route in this guide, covering nearly 8 kilometers with a moderate elevation gain.
Where can I find parking for dog-friendly trails around Loch Tarsan?
Many of the trails, such as the Puck's Glen Car Park – Fallen Silver Fir Tree loop from Rashfield, start from designated car parks, making access convenient for hikers with dogs. Specific parking information is usually available on the individual tour pages.
What should I consider when hiking with my dog in Loch Tarsan?
Always keep your dog under control, especially near livestock or wildlife. Be mindful of other hikers and ensure your dog is comfortable with the terrain. Carry enough water for both yourself and your dog, and remember to pick up after them to keep the trails clean for everyone.
Are there any trails that offer panoramic views for me and my dog to enjoy?
While specific routes in this guide aren't highlighted for panoramic views, the region around Loch Tarsan is known for its elevated points like Beinn Laoigh and Beinn Mhòr, which offer sweeping views across the Southern Highlands. Exploring trails that ascend into the rolling hills will likely reward you with scenic vistas.
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