The best walks and hikes around Johnstone

Yes, there are over 90 hiking routes to explore in the Johnstone area. These range from easy strolls through local woodlands to more demanding treks in the surrounding country parks, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The trails around Johnstone are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 stars. Hikers often praise the varied landscapes, from the serene paths in Bluebell Wood and Rannoch Wood to the expansive views across the Renfrewshire hills.

Absolutely. For a short and accessible outing, the Hiking loop from Milliken Park is a great choice. It's a gentle 1.8-mile (3 km) walk that's perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

Most trails in the area are suitable for hiking with dogs, but it's important to be mindful of the environment. In parks like Gleniffer Braes Country Park and Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, you may encounter livestock, so it's best to keep your dog on a lead in these areas.

The Brandyburn waterfall is a popular local beauty spot located on the southern edge of Windyhill wood. You can incorporate a visit to the waterfall into a longer walk that explores the network of paths through both Windyhill and the adjacent Bluebell Wood.

Johnstone is close to two major parks that are favorites among hikers.

Gleniffer Braes Country Park is a highly-rated expanse of woodland and moorland with numerous paths and scenic lookout points. Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, Scotland's largest regional park, offers a vast area with marked trails through varied terrain, including routes along the River Calder and around Castle Semple Loch.

Yes, for those seeking a more demanding trek, the Castle Semple Loch – Castle Semple Loch loop from Johnstone is a difficult 12.5-mile (20.1 km) circuit. This route requires a good level of fitness and takes over 5 hours to complete as it navigates the perimeter of the loch.

For panoramic views, the trails in Windyhill woodland reward you with vistas of Paisley, Glasgow, and the Kilpatrick Hills. For a more focused viewpoint, the Broadfield Hill Trig Point loop from Howwood is a moderate hike that leads to a trig point, offering excellent views over the surrounding countryside.

Yes, many trails are accessible via public transport. Johnstone train station is an excellent starting point for walks into Bluebell Wood and Gleniffer Braes. The Semple Temple loop from Milliken Park is another great option that starts right from a local train station.

Many of the best walks in the area are loop trails, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A great moderate option is the Castle Semple Loch – Semple Temple loop from Howwood, a 10.6-mile (17 km) circular route with lovely water views.

For a day hike in Renfrewshire, it's wise to be prepared for changing weather. Essential items include waterproof clothing, sturdy walking shoes or boots, a map or fully charged phone with the komoot app, and enough water and snacks for your journey. Even on shorter walks, conditions can change quickly.