The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Loch Lomond
4.4
(5399)
40,335
hikers
110
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Loch Lomond traverse a diverse landscape shaped by the Highland Boundary Fault, separating the gentle Lowland terrain from the rugged Highlands. The region is characterized by the expansive freshwater loch, numerous islands, and a mix of ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and dramatic mountainous peaks. This varied topography offers a wide array of hiking experiences, from leisurely lochside paths to more challenging hill ascents.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Loch Lomond
- The most popular family…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.7
(456)
4,022
hikers
4.88km
01:49
310m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(432)
2,844
hikers
12.8km
04:57
910m
910m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.1
(24)
390
hikers
13.9km
05:37
900m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.2
(23)
381
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(39)
277
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Excellent winter route - when it isn't so muddy!
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Balmaha at 19 miles (30.5 km) is the first official checkpoint on the West Highland Way race. On the shore of Loch Lomond, it's accessible by road or ferry. There is a visitor centre, cafés and restaurants. Good spot to run Conic Hill if you aren't running the whole WHW. There is a statue of Tom Weir, staring across the loch. Tom was a lifelong lover of Scotland as well as a writer, broadcaster and climber.
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Started 8:15 at the top for 10:45, took our time ! good path to the top , continued on pitarmigan pathto decend, took a little longer on the way back down but worth it as views were amazing..
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At the base of Ben Lomond and many other walks Balmaha is a beautiful village. The rangers in the visitors centre are very helpful, for West Highland Way walkers I’d recommend popping in for a map with the restricted camping areas on it.
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nice pub & restaurant, good food & good price. good few stuffed Scottish wildlife in cases also.
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Nice tour, stone steps but extremely slippery.
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Founded in 1705, The Drovers Inn is reputedly one of Scotland’s oldest and most haunted pubs. Situated on an old drover’s road, it has welcomed countless visitors over the past 300 years, although according to legend, not everyone has made it safely. A young family who had been evicted from their home in the late 18th century were travelling south to start a new life in the Lowlands. They were not far from the shelter at The Drovers Inn when a bitter winter storm suddenly blew up. The blizzard caused them to take the wrong road and instead of finding a warm bed, the family were found frozen to death days later. Witnesses have seen the ghostly group both wandering the streets outside and cowering in the pub, always accompanied by a bitter cold. Another common ghost sighting is Angus the drover, one of many who stopped here with their cattle on the long journey to the Lowland markets. As people often do here, Angus drank far too much upon arrival and woke late the next morning with a sore head and no cattle in sight. His enterprising rivals had pumped him full of alcohol so that they could disappear with his animals while the poor boy slept off his intoxication. Angus returned timidly to his chief without the expected bag of coin or the cattle he still had, and was in deep trouble. He was banished from his home and his clan, losing his family in the process. Forced to wander the Highlands in search of a new life, Angus found it hard to move on. In desperation, he traveled back to the Drovers Inn, where he plotted his revenge. He waited for weeks until the same party that had robbed him reappeared. Angus was overcome with rage and could barely contain himself as he waited for the perfect opportunity to strike. That opportunity never came. One of his rivals had spotted him and knew exactly what the young man was planning. They came in the middle of the night, surprised Angus and hanged him from a tree next to the building. The murdered drover was seen at night, dressed in his tartan plaid and wandering around The Drovers Inn, seeking his revenge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Loch Lomond?
Loch Lomond offers a wide variety of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 100 routes, with more than 50 categorized as easy and nearly 40 as moderate, ensuring there's something suitable for families of all experience levels.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Loch Lomond?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Loch Lomond, with an average score of 4.38 out of 5 stars from over 5,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning views, diverse landscapes, and well-maintained paths, making it a favorite for family outings.
What natural features or landmarks can families explore on these hikes?
Many family-friendly routes offer opportunities to see iconic landmarks. For instance, you can enjoy the View of Loch Lomond from Conic Hill, or explore the area around Path to Conic Hill Summit. The region is known for its dramatic loch views, ancient woodlands, and the unique Highland Boundary Fault line.
Are there dog-friendly family hiking trails in Loch Lomond?
Yes, many trails in Loch Lomond are suitable for families with dogs. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas. Always check specific route details for any restrictions, and remember to carry water for your pet.
Can I find circular family-friendly hiking routes in Loch Lomond?
Absolutely! Circular routes are perfect for families as they bring you back to your starting point. A great example is the Path to Conic Hill Summit – View of Loch Lomond loop from Balmaha, which offers fantastic views and a rewarding experience without retracing your steps.
Is parking readily available for family-friendly hikes in Loch Lomond?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Popular starting points like Balmaha, for routes such as Conic Hill – UK Hill Walks for Beginners, often have dedicated car parks, though they can fill up quickly during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early or check local council websites for parking information.
Are any family-friendly trails in Loch Lomond accessible by public transport?
Yes, some family-friendly trails are accessible via public transport. Villages like Balloch and Luss are well-served by buses, and Balloch even has a train station. From these hubs, you can often find local bus services or start walks directly. For example, Balmaha, a popular starting point for Conic Hill, is reachable by bus.
What kind of terrain can families expect on these trails?
The terrain on family-friendly trails in Loch Lomond is quite varied. You'll find everything from gentle, well-maintained paths along the lochside to slightly more challenging, rocky ascents on hills like Conic Hill. Many routes feature forest paths, some with boardwalks, and others with natural, uneven surfaces. Always wear appropriate footwear.
Are there options for shorter, easier family walks?
Yes, there are numerous options for shorter and easier family walks. Many trails are designed for leisurely strolls, perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing. These often stick to lower elevations and well-trodden paths, offering beautiful scenery without significant effort.
When is the best time of year for family hiking in Loch Lomond?
The spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for family hiking in Loch Lomond, with milder temperatures and fewer midges. Summer (June-August) is also popular, but trails can be busier. Winter hiking is possible but requires more preparation due to colder weather and potentially icy conditions.
Are there cafes or facilities near family-friendly hiking routes?
Many popular starting points for family hikes, such as Balmaha and Luss, have cafes, pubs, and public toilets. Loch Lomond Shores in Balloch also offers a range of facilities. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially outside of peak season, and to carry snacks and drinks for your hike.
Are there any family-friendly hikes that feature waterfalls?
While the guide's specific family-friendly routes don't directly highlight waterfalls, the wider Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is home to beautiful cascades like the Falls of Dochart and Bracklinn Falls. These are often accessible via separate, family-friendly walks, though they might require a short drive from the main lochside trails.
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