4.6
(93)
339
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Clatteringshaws Loch, located within Galloway Forest Park, features a freshwater loch surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and expansive moorland. The area is characterized by the dramatic backdrop of the Galloway Hills and the River Dee, offering varied terrain for outdoor activities. Trails often traverse woodlands, open moorland, and provide views of the loch and surrounding peaks.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
5.38km
01:31
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
3
hikers
12.5km
03:30
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
4
hikers
8.33km
02:17
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
13
hikers
7.87km
02:12
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(26)
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
Popular around Clatteringshaws Loch
There are 6 dedicated hiking trails around Clatteringshaws Loch that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.
The bus-accessible trails around Clatteringshaws Loch cater to various skill levels. You'll find 2 easy routes perfect for a relaxed outing, and 4 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge. There are no difficult routes in this selection.
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. For a gentle introduction, consider the Hiking loop from St John's Town of Dalry, which is just over 5 km. Another easy option is the Alingibon Bridge â View of Carsphairn Road loop from St John's Town of Dalry, offering pleasant views over a similar distance.
The trails around Clatteringshaws Loch feature a diverse landscape, including serene loch-side paths, dense forests, and open moorland. You can expect a mix of well-maintained tracks and natural woodland trails, with some routes offering gentle ascents into the rolling hills surrounding the loch.
Absolutely! All 6 of the bus-accessible routes in this guide are circular, meaning you'll end your hike back at your starting point, making them very convenient for public transport users. Examples include the Waterside Hill â Dunveoch Wood loop from St John's Town of Dalry and the Alingibon Bridge loop from St John's Town of Dalry.
Many trails offer views of the stunning Clatteringshaws Loch itself, a central feature of the Galloway Forest Park. You might also encounter the View of Clatteringshaws Loch highlight, offering panoramic vistas. The wider area is known for its natural beauty, including the surrounding hills and forests.
The best times to visit Clatteringshaws Loch for hiking are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, vibrant natural displays, and are ideal for enjoying the trails and scenery.
Clatteringshaws Loch and the surrounding Galloway Forest Park are havens for wildlife. Keep an eye out for red deer, otters, and various bird species such as ducks, swans, and even ospreys, especially along the loch-side sections of trails like the Craiggubble Wood loop from St John's Town of Dalry.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Clatteringshaws Loch, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil beauty of the loch, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the stunning Galloway Forest Park landscape.
While the cafe at the Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre may have closed, there are picnic spots around the dam with excellent views. For other facilities, it's advisable to check local amenities in St John's Town of Dalry, which serves as the starting point for many of these bus-accessible routes.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.