Loch Ard Forest Trails

Loch Ard Forest spreads across mixed woodland and shoreline near Aberfoyle in the Trossachs, offering flexible route options from easy two-mile riverside strolls to full ten-mile circuits that push deeper into the forest. The woodland composition shifts from native birch, oak and rowan near the loch to denser commercial plantations at higher ground, and the underlying Old Red Sandstone creates rolling terrain that rises gently away from the water. Loch Ard itself is beautiful in autumn when the surrounding hills turn bronze and the grey water reflects the changing colours. Multiple waymarked trails radiate from Milton car park, making route planning straightforward.

This is a superb dog friendly walk with genuinely high off-lead potential across most of the forest ground. The extensive trail network lets you match distance to your dog's fitness and enthusiasm, and the natural shade from the canopy is essential on warm days. Numerous burns and streams provide fresh drinking water throughout, and the loch itself offers excellent swimming for water-loving dogs. Livestock presence is low within the forest boundary. Milton car park has good facilities, and Aberfoyle village is a short drive with the Forth Inn and other dog-friendly options for post-walk refreshments.