4.6
(79)
550
hikers
7
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Den of Airlie offer access to a landscape characterized by wooded gorges, significant hills, and the confluence of the River Isla and Melgam Water. The area features diverse natural habitats, including ancient woodlands and rich plant communities, particularly within the Den of Alyth. Hikers can explore undulating paths, small lakes, and historical routes, with views extending to the Sidlaw Hills and distant Cairngorms from higher elevations. The region's geology includes sedimentary and volcanic rocks, shaped…
Last updated: October 2, 2026
4.0
(4)
27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
29
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
12
hikers
12.6km
03:28
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
4
hikers
13.0km
03:44
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.44km
01:41
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Not sure about the forest bit but its a pleasant enough ride.
0
0
You can gain access through the locked gate - ask a local person about the key.
0
0
A nice grass/dirt narrow path. April 2025 - there's a fallen tree that has to be climbed over or under.
0
0
It's a bit of a climb from Alyth to this summit, but well worth it!
0
0
Rising steeply from Alyth to 300 meters, the Hill of Alyth offers stunning views of Strathmore, the Sidlaw Hills, and the Cairngorm Mountains. At the summit, a Triangulation Point and commemorative pillar highlight the hill's connection to Alyth's commonty, a shared land used by parish inhabitants. Geologically, the hill is significant, formed from sedimentary and volcanic rocks shaped by glacial activity. The area also features healing wells, believed to have curative powers since pre-Christian times, and remains a symbol of community land rights, with a notable history of local disputes, including the 1948 reclamation of the hill by residents.
0
0
Flamborough Head is a promontory is a chalk headland with sheer white cliffs. The cliff top has two standing lighthouse towers, the oldest dating from 1669 and Flamborough Head Lighthouse built in 1806.
0
0
The Alyth Arches are three imposing stone arches from a 16th-century extension to the old parish church in Alyth, Scotland, which was abandoned in 1839. The site is believed to have housed the first Christian church in Alyth, founded in the 6th century by St. Moluag. Remnants of a 13th-century stone church are still visible, alongside a medieval graveyard with notable memorials, including the Ramsay family burial chapel. One Ramsay family member died in a historic duel with James Macrae. The site is currently not open to the public.
0
0
There are 7 bus-accessible hiking trails around Den of Airlie, offering a variety of experiences for different fitness levels. You'll find 4 easy routes and 3 moderate routes to explore.
Yes, Den of Airlie offers several easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus. A great option is the Wee Bear Cafe – Loch of Lintrathen loop from Bridgend of Lintrathen, which is just under 7 km with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages. Another gentle choice is the Alyth Packhorse Bridge – Alyth Parish Church loop from Alyth.
The bus-accessible hikes in Den of Airlie traverse diverse landscapes. You can expect to encounter the wooded gorge of Alyth Den with its winding paths and small lakes, as well as sections along the River Isla and Melgam Water. Some routes may offer glimpses of the wider Strathmore valley and the distant Sidlaw Hills.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes in Den of Airlie are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often conveniently near a bus stop. Examples include the Alyth Burn in Den of Alyth – Alyth Parish Church loop from Alyth and The Den Park loop from Kirriemuir.
The Den of Airlie, particularly the Den of Alyth, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rich biodiversity. Hikers can discover species-rich woodlands, uncommon plants like the coralroot orchid, and a variety of rare insects. The River Isla and Melgam Water are also part of a Special Area of Conservation, important for Atlantic salmon and otters.
For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Alyth Packhorse Bridge – Alyth Burn in Den of Alyth loop from Alyth offers a longer route of approximately 13 km with around 300 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout while still being accessible by bus.
The bus-accessible trails in Den of Airlie are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from 55 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodland paths, the natural beauty of Alyth Den, and the convenience of starting directly from bus stops.
Yes, some bus-accessible routes start or pass through towns like Alyth or near villages like Bridgend of Lintrathen, where you can find local cafes or pubs. For instance, the Wee Bear Cafe – Loch of Lintrathen loop is named after a local cafe, offering a convenient stop for refreshments.
The region has a rich history. Within Alyth Den, you can find remnants of an old drovers' route and abandoned quarries that once supplied stone for local buildings. The wider area also includes historic sites like Airlie Castle, adding to the cultural context of your walk.
The Den of Airlie trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings vibrant plant life and blooming orchids, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer walks, and even winter can be beautiful, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.