Loch Lomond East Shore from Balmaha

Yes, this is a well-loved route for dogs and earns a strong rating of 8.5 out of 10 on Wildpack Collective. The walk follows the West Highland Way through native oak and birch woodland with beautiful loch views, and the mostly well-surfaced forest track makes it accessible for a wide range of dogs. Balmaha village also has cafes and facilities to make the day comfortable for you both.

Dogs can enjoy good stretches of off-lead time through the wooded sections of the route, which make up much of the trail. That said, leads are advisable near any grazing areas and during busier periods around Balmaha itself, so it's worth keeping one to hand.

The terrain is mostly forest track but becomes rougher and more undulating through the woods north of Sallochy, so it's worth bearing your dog's fitness in mind when planning how far to go. All facilities — including toilets, a visitor centre, and cafes — are at Balmaha, with nothing available beyond Sallochy, so pack water and any supplies you'll need for the trail. The walk works well as an out-and-back to whatever point suits you, or as a point-to-point if you arrange a bus or boat return.