Puck's Glen and Cnoc a' Mhadaidh Loop

No, Puck's Glen is currently closed due to severe storm damage. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has stated there is no confirmed reopening date, and they advise against attempting to access the closed route for safety reasons. While the Puck's Glen section is inaccessible, other walking and cycling routes around the Holy Loch are available.

While the Puck's Glen gorge section (currently closed) is known for its strenuous, rocky, and uneven paths, the connecting forest roads and the Holy Loch view section are likely to feature more paved surfaces. These sections offer a different experience, potentially more suitable for jogging, with varying degrees of difficulty.

Even with Puck's Glen closed, the loop offers scenic views. You can expect to see the View of Holy Loch, and from higher points, you might catch glimpses of the Firth of Clyde. The surrounding area is part of a lush forest environment.

Specific parking details for the Holy Loch view loop are not provided, but typically, trails in this area have designated parking near trailheads. It's advisable to check local signage or the Forestry and Land Scotland website for current parking information, especially given the closure of Puck's Glen.

Generally, trails within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and Argyll Forest Park are dog-friendly. However, dogs should always be kept under control, preferably on a leash, to protect wildlife and livestock, and to ensure the safety of other trail users. Please clean up after your dog.

The scenery in this area, particularly the forest sections, is often described as most dramatic after rain and in autumn, when the colors are vibrant. However, be prepared for potentially wet and slippery conditions. Spring and summer offer milder weather, though midges can be present.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within Argyll Forest Park, including the Holy Loch view loop. The park is managed for public access and enjoyment. However, some car parks may have a small charge.

The full 'Puck's Glen and Holy Loch view loop' is rated as 'difficult' for jogging, primarily due to the strenuous nature of the Puck's Glen section. With Puck's Glen closed, the accessible Holy Loch view sections might be less challenging, especially if they involve forest roads or paved paths. However, the overall elevation gain of around 330 meters suggests a good level of fitness is still beneficial.

The area is known for its lush, temperate rainforest environment, with dense mosses and ferns. Towering conifers, including giant Californian redwoods, Douglas fir, and Western hemlock, contribute to the rich, green forest. The Puck's Glen Waterfalls are a key feature of the closed section, but the surrounding forest still offers a vibrant ecosystem.

Given the 'difficult' rating for the full loop and the rugged terrain of the closed Puck's Glen section, the entire route might not be suitable for all families, especially with young children. However, the more accessible and potentially paved sections around the Holy Loch could offer easier, shorter walks. It's best to research specific accessible paths in the area if planning a family outing.