The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Loch Lomond

There are over 50 family-friendly hiking trails around Loch Lomond featured in this guide, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This includes 24 easy routes, perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.

Loch Lomond offers a wonderfully diverse landscape, from gentle lochside paths and tranquil forest trails to more undulating hills. Many family-friendly routes feature well-maintained paths, but some may include uneven ground, slight inclines, or muddy sections, especially after rain. The region sits where the Highlands meet the Lowlands, providing varied scenery for all.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Loch Lomond are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the View of Loch Lomond loop from Cashel Camping & Caravan Park Forest Holidays is an easy circular option, offering lovely views and a manageable distance for most families.

Loch Lomond's trails are rich with natural beauty. You can discover stunning loch views, ancient woodlands, and even waterfalls. Highlights include the picturesque Milarrochy Bay, and the impressive Inversnaid Falls. Many routes offer panoramic vistas of the loch and its islands, such as those found on the Ben's Bakes Honesty Box – View of Loch Lomond loop.

While many trails are generally accessible, specific pram-friendly routes with smooth, flat surfaces are less common in the more natural areas. Some lochside paths or forest tracks might be suitable, but it's always best to check individual route descriptions for terrain details. For toddlers, shorter, easy walks with minimal elevation gain are recommended, such as those found near villages like Balmaha or Luss.

Most trails in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially around livestock, wildlife, and other hikers. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead, particularly during lambing season or in nature reserves.

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) often offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures, fewer midges, and beautiful scenery (blossoms in spring, vibrant colours in autumn). Summer can be lovely but also busier, and midges can be present. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder, potentially icy, or snowy conditions.

Parking is available at many popular trailheads and villages around Loch Lomond, such as Balmaha, Luss, and Tarbet. However, during peak season or on weekends, these can fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using public transport where possible. Some car parks may have a fee.

Yes, several family-friendly trails are accessible via public transport. Buses operate along the main roads around Loch Lomond, connecting villages like Balloch, Luss, Balmaha, and Tarbet. The West Highland Line train also stops at stations like Arrochar & Tarbet, offering access to trails in those areas. Planning your route in advance with public transport schedules is recommended.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails around Loch Lomond, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning loch views, the variety of landscapes from forests to hills, and the well-maintained paths that make hiking accessible for all ages. The opportunity to spot local wildlife and enjoy peaceful natural surroundings are also commonly highlighted.

Many of the charming villages around Loch Lomond, such as Balmaha, Luss, and Drymen, offer cafes, pubs, and public toilets, providing convenient stops before or after your hike. For example, the An Ceann Mòr Viewpoint – Loch Sloy Dam loop from Inversnaid starts near facilities in Inversnaid. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially outside of peak season.