Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s most scenic outdoor playgrounds, a place of towering peaks, mirrored lochs, and peaceful woodland trails. It is also a brilliant destination for dog owners, with countless routes where your four-legged friend can roam free, paddle in clear water, and join you on a proper Scottish adventure.
Below you’ll find some of our favourite dog friendly walks in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, from gentle lochside strolls to rugged hill climbs. Each one offers something a little different, but all are perfect for exploring with your dog.
1. Conic Hill, Balmaha
One of the most popular short hikes in the national park, Conic Hill offers huge rewards for a relatively modest climb. The route begins in Balmaha and zig-zags steeply up to a panoramic summit overlooking Loch Lomond and its scattering of islands.
Dogs will love the woodland start and grassy slopes near the top. There are often sheep grazing, so some on-lead control may be needed, but there are still plenty of safe off-lead sections lower down.
Distance: 2.5 miles return
Difficulty: Moderate (steep in parts)
Off lead: Partial – lower slopes suitable, livestock near summit
Parking: Balmaha car park (paid, tends to fill early)
2. Ben A’an, Trossachs
A compact but striking hill climb often called “the mountain in miniature”. The trail starts from the Ben A’an car park near Loch Achray and climbs steadily through forest before emerging onto open moorland. The summit view across Loch Katrine is unforgettable.
This is a brilliant adventure for active dogs, with a clear, stony path the whole way up, streams for drinking, and no long drop-offs to worry about. Expect a steady climb but a short overall route.
Distance: 2.5 miles return
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead: Good – minimal livestock, but watch for steep edges near the top
Parking: Ben A’an car park (paid)
3. Loch Katrine Shore Path
If you prefer something flatter, the lochside path at Loch Katrine is a perfect option. Starting from the Trossachs Pier, you can follow the well-maintained road along the northern edge of the water, turning back whenever you like.
It’s a great, easy going walk for dogs who enjoy a swim or a dip, which makes it a good option for older dogs or those not up to steep inclines. You can even hop on the steamship Sir Walter Scott for a cruise, as dogs are welcome aboard.
Distance: Up to 13 miles return (choose your distance)
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead: Excellent – wide open paths, few hazards
Parking: Trossachs Pier (paid)
4. Falls of Dochart & Killin Riverside Walk
The Falls of Dochart are one of Scotland’s most photographed waterfalls, tumbling dramatically through the centre of the village of Killin. A short circular route from the bridge takes you along the River Dochart and through gentle woodland.
It’s an easy-going walk ideal for less active dogs or those who prefer a sniffy wander. The falls themselves are fenced off in most parts, but always keep a lead handy due to the fast-flowing water.
Distance: 2 miles circular
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead: Limited – best kept close to the path near the falls
Parking: Main car park in Killin (paid)
5. The West Highland Way (Balmaha to Rowardennan section)
For a longer challenge, walk a section of the famous West Highland Way as it follows the eastern banks of Loch Lomond. The stretch between Balmaha and Rowardennan offers quiet beaches, shady forest, and excellent swimming spots for dogs.
The path is undulating but never too steep, making it a perfect half-day adventure. Dogs will love the variety of terrain and all the water access along the way.
Distance: 7.5 miles one way
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead: Good, but recall needed near livestock and loch edges
Parking: Balmaha or Rowardennan (both paid)
6. Loch Ard Forest Trails
Loch Ard, near Aberfoyle, offers miles of peaceful forest tracks and lochside routes that are ideal for exploring with dogs. You can tailor the distance to suit your energy level, with loops ranging from 2 to 10 miles.
The scenery is classic Trossachs, with dense pine forest, still waters, and occasional wildlife sightings. Dogs can usually roam freely here and there are plenty of shallow spots for paddling.
Distance: Varies (2–10 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Off lead: Excellent – few hazards, wide trails
Parking: Milton car park near Aberfoyle (free)
7. Bracklinn Falls, Callander
This short circular route leads to one of the park’s most impressive waterfalls, reached via a forest path and wooden bridge. The sound of rushing water and the shady glen make it a sensory delight for dogs.
It’s a simple but satisfying walk that can easily be extended with other local paths around Callander.
Distance: 2.5 miles circular
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead: Partial – keep on lead near bridge and viewing platforms
Parking: Bracklinn Falls car park (free)
Before You Go
The walks in this article vary in length, it’s best to make sure you’re always prepared ahead of your hike, especially in remote areas:
- Always carry water and dog waste bags as bins are limited on rural routes.
- Pack essential gear for your dog
- Be aware of livestock and follow on-lead guidance signs.
- Check seasonal access restrictions, especially during lambing season.
- Bring a towel for post-walk drying as there are plenty of swim spots.
Map of Dog Friendly Walks and Hikes in Loch Lomond and The Trossarchs
Explore the beautiful Loch Lomond and the scenic Trossarchs using our handy map of dog friendly walks, click the pins for more information and directions.
A scenic woodland trail leading to dramatic waterfalls and a bridge viewpoint. A short and satisfying walk for dogs.
Distance (Miles): 2.5
Distance (KM): 4.0
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
Extensive forest and lochside paths near Aberfoyle with flexible routes and plenty of water access. Ideal for off-lead exploring.
Distance (Miles): 2–10
Distance (KM): 3.2–16.1
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
A longer lochside section of the West Highland Way offering forest trails and beaches for dogs to swim. A great half-day adventure.
Distance (Miles): 7.5
Distance (KM): 12.1
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
A gentle riverside route around Killin with views of the spectacular Falls of Dochart. Ideal for relaxed, shorter walks.
Distance (Miles): 2.0
Distance (KM): 3.2
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
A peaceful lochside walk starting from Trossachs Pier with opportunities for dogs to swim and explore. Flat and scenic, ideal for longer strolls.
Distance (Miles): 13.0
Distance (KM): 20.9
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
A compact hill often called “the mountain in miniature” with a stunning view over Loch Katrine. A short but rewarding climb for active dogs.
Distance (Miles): 2.5
Distance (KM): 4.0
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
A short but steep climb from Balmaha offering panoramic views across Loch Lomond and its islands. Great mix of woodland and open hillside for dogs.
Distance (Miles): 2.5
Distance (KM): 4.0
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
Looking for even more adventure with your dog? Our Wildpack Map has information on dog friendly hikes, campsites, road trips and much more across the whole UK.
Final Thoughts
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs is a paradise for dogs and owners alike, where every trail leads to another loch, forest, or mountain view. Whether you’re after a relaxed ramble or a proper hike, you’ll find endless opportunities to get outside and let your dog enjoy Scotland’s great outdoors right by your side.
Want to explore even more of what Scotland has to offer? There are many exciting dog friendly walks at Cairngorms National Park also.
Photo Credits:
Header: Loch bouy