The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Loch Tay

The Loch Tay area offers a wide selection of dog-friendly trails, with over 20 routes specifically curated for you and your canine companion. These range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

Most dog-friendly hikes around Loch Tay are rated as easy or moderate. For example, the View Over Loch Tay – Falls of Dochart loop from Killin is an easy option, while the Auchmore Wood & Falls of Dochart loop from Killin offers a moderate challenge. There are also a few more difficult routes for experienced hikers and their dogs.

Yes, several dog-friendly trails in the area incorporate stunning waterfalls. The View Over Loch Tay – Falls of Dochart loop from Killin takes you past the impressive Falls of Dochart. You can also explore the Falls of Acharn via a circular walk on the eastern side of Loch Tay, which leads to a unique Victorian cave.

The terrain varies, from well-maintained paths and forest tracks to more uneven gravel paths and natural trails. For instance, the Drummond Hill area, overlooking Kenmore, offers trails through forests on uneven gravel paths with some steep sections, providing stunning views over Loch Tay.

While many trails are dog-friendly, it's always best to keep your dog under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. The Ben Lawers Range, for example, is a National Nature Reserve known for its rare alpine flora and wildlife, so keeping dogs on a lead is crucial there to protect the environment and local animals.

For breathtaking views, consider trails on Drummond Hill, such as the Black Rock Viewpoint trail, which offers panoramic vistas over Loch Tay and Kenmore. The Ben Lawers Range also provides spectacular views of the loch and the wider Scottish landscape from its higher elevations. You can also find a dedicated Picnic Area Overlooking Loch Tay.

Absolutely. Many of the dog-friendly routes are circular, allowing for varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Kinnell Stone Circle – Dochart Viaduct loop from Inchbuie and the Loch Tay – Dochart Viaduct loop from Killin, both offering pleasant loops for you and your dog.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Near Killin, you can explore the Kinnell Stone Circle. While the Scottish Crannog Centre is a popular attraction, it's best to check their specific dog policy before visiting. The historic Kenmore village itself is also a charming place to explore.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails around Loch Tay, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of routes suitable for dogs, and the peaceful atmosphere of the Scottish Highlands. Many appreciate the well-marked paths and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes with their pets.

Parking is generally available at or near the starting points of many popular trails. For example, trails around Killin and Kenmore often have designated parking areas. It's always advisable to check specific route details on komoot for parking information before you head out.

Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for hiking with dogs. Summer can be lovely, but be mindful of warmer weather and potential midges. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear and awareness of shorter daylight hours and potentially icy conditions.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Dochart Viaduct – Falls of Dochart loop from Killin is a moderate route spanning over 14 km with significant elevation gain. The Ben Lawers Range also offers more challenging multi-peak routes, though these require very good fitness and sure-footedness for both you and your dog.