The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Trossachs

Our guide features over 45 family-friendly hiking trails in the Trossachs, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. You'll find a diverse selection to suit all ages and abilities.

The Trossachs offer a wonderful variety of terrain. You can expect well-maintained paths through ancient forests, gentle lochside trails, and some routes with slightly more elevation offering stunning viewpoints. The region's unique geology, split by the Highland Boundary Fault, means you'll experience both rugged highland and softer lowland landscapes.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the Loch Katrine – Loch Katrine loop from Achray Water is an easy 7.4 km circular hike perfect for families, offering beautiful views of the loch.

The Trossachs are renowned for their natural beauty. Many trails offer breathtaking views of the lochs and mountains. You might encounter features like the serene Loch Katrine, the picturesque Loch Achray, or even the dramatic View of Loch Katrine from the summit of Ben A'an on a more challenging family hike.

Many trails in the Trossachs are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Remember to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and clean up after your pet.

The Trossachs are beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant weather for family hiking. During these months, trails are typically drier, and the days are longer, providing ample time to explore. Autumn brings spectacular colours to the woodlands.

While many routes are best accessed by car, some areas within the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park are served by local bus routes, particularly around larger towns like Callander and Aberfoyle. Planning ahead with local transport schedules is recommended if you intend to use public transport for trail access.

Many popular trailheads, especially those near villages like Balmaha, Aberfoyle, or Callander, offer dedicated parking facilities. You'll also find charming cafes and pubs in these settlements, perfect for a post-hike treat or lunch. For example, the View of Glen Finglas Reservoir – Brig o' Turk Tea Room loop starts near Brig o' Turk, which has local amenities.

The Trossachs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning loch views, the variety of well-maintained paths suitable for all ages, and the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands. The opportunity to spot local wildlife is also a frequent highlight.

For very young children, look for routes with minimal elevation gain and smooth, wide paths. The Pass of Achray Boardwalk – Achray Water Footbridge loop is a great option, offering a relatively flat 5 km walk with lovely scenery, perfect for little legs or pushchairs.

Yes, the Trossachs, with its numerous lochs and rivers, offers opportunities for wild swimming. Always exercise caution, check water conditions, and be aware of local regulations. Some lochs, like Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine, have designated access points, but always prioritize safety, especially with children.