Conic Hill & the West Highland Way trail from Garadhban Forest — Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park

Embark on a rewarding hike along the Conic Hill & the West Highland Way trail from Garadhban Forest, a moderate route spanning 9.8 miles (15.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1342 feet (409 metres), typically taking 4 hours and 36 minutes to complete. You begin with a tranquil woodland ascent through Garadhban Forest, where paths are firm and well-defined, before transitioning to open moorland. The climb up Conic Hill is notably steep, featuring rocky steps and requiring careful footing, but it rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Loch Lomond, its islands, and the distant Ben Lomond.

This trail is generally considered moderate to hard, with the ascent of Conic Hill demanding good fitness and sure-footedness, especially on steep, rocky sections that can be tricky when wet or icy. While parts of the route through Garadhban Forest are accessible for various skill levels, the challenge increases significantly as you approach the summit. The path is popular and well-marked with the distinctive West Highland Way thistle emblem, guiding you along this well-trodden route.

Conic Hill is a prominent feature situated directly on the Highland Boundary Fault line, a major geological division separating the Scottish Lowlands from the Highlands, visible in the alignment of Loch Lomond's islands. This section forms a significant part of the iconic West Highland Way, Scotland's best-known long-distance trail. The initial forest environment also offers a peaceful experience, home to wildlife like roe deer and red squirrels, before you reach the breathtaking 360-degree views from Conic Hill.