4.3
(347)
4,301
hikers
10
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Crathes, Drumoak And Durris traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and paths alongside the River Dee. The region offers varied terrain, from gentle riverside walks to routes through managed forests like Durris Forest. Hikers can explore historic estates and find routes circling features such as Coy Reservoir.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
45
hikers
10.2km
02:37
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
22
hikers
6.25km
01:43
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
20
hikers
3.90km
01:03
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
4.44km
01:10
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
3.55km
00:54
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lovely place, friendly stuff. My favorite coffe stop on bike🚴♀️☕️❤️
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For running the woodland trails offer some beautiful scenery, and a large loop around the estate. The boardwalk when busy can be harder to pass as it is very narrow.
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The Crathes heritage railway ends here. You may be able to spot a parked train this end. You can take steam train rides a bit further down the Deeside Way towards Crathes.
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A nice spot for a break. Look out for the fish ladder, which supports aquatic wildlife get around the sluice gate.
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The viewpoint along this trail offers a vast view across Deeside, and notable small hills including Clachnaben and Kerloch can be seen. This is just a short walk from the car park, and the Drunhill trail takes about 25 minutes at a good pace.
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There are over 10 dedicated hiking routes in Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris that start directly from bus stations, making it easy to explore the region without a car. These routes range from easy strolls to moderate hikes, catering to various fitness levels.
Yes, the region offers several easy, family-friendly routes accessible by bus. For instance, the Crathes Castle & Gardens – Coy Reservoir loop from Crathes Castle is an easy 3.9 km walk that takes you around the scenic Coy Reservoir, offering lovely views and a gentle gradient suitable for families.
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible trails are circular, allowing you to return to your starting bus stop without retracing your steps. An excellent example is the Drum Castle – Drum Castle, Garden and Estate loop from Drumoak, an easy 6.2 km circular route that explores the historic estate.
The bus-accessible trails in Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris traverse a diverse landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and paths alongside the River Dee. You can expect picturesque scenery, from the managed forests of Durris to the historic grounds of Crathes Castle and tranquil reservoir views.
Yes, the area is rich in history. Many bus-accessible routes pass by significant landmarks. You can explore the grounds of Scolty Tower, or discover ancient sites like the Cullerlie Stone Circle and Midmar Stone Circle, all of which are highlights in the region.
Many trails in the Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris area are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and along the Deeside Way. However, always keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock, in nature reserves, or within castle grounds, and be mindful of local signage.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the BDLN Coffee House, Banchory – Ride Cafe loop from Crathes Castle offers a moderate 10.2 km hike. While not overly strenuous, its length provides a good challenge and a chance to explore more of the local scenery.
Yes, you can reach several scenic viewpoints via bus-accessible trails. The region features hills like Brimmond Hill, which offers expansive views. While not directly from a bus stop, routes often lead to elevated points such as the Hill of Fare Summit Cairn, providing rewarding panoramas.
The bus-accessible trails in Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the variety of landscapes from ancient woodlands to riverside strolls, and the convenience of starting directly from public transport.
The trails are enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Between September and November, and again from February to March, you might even witness salmon leaping at the Falls of Feugh, a dramatic natural spectacle along the River Dee.
Yes, several bus-accessible routes incorporate water features. You can enjoy routes that circle Coy Reservoir, offering different perspectives of the landscape. Additionally, many paths run alongside the River Dee, providing scenic riverside walks and opportunities to observe wildlife.
Absolutely. The region is home to historic castles. The Hiking loop from Crathes Castle is an easy 3.6 km route that allows you to explore the grounds and enjoy views of the famous Crathes Castle, all easily reachable by bus.


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