Loch Lomond East Shore from Balmaha
Stirling
The Loch Lomond East Shore path from Balmaha is a dog friendly walk that follows the West Highland Way northwards along one of the most beautiful sections of the loch. The route weaves through native oak and birch woodland with frequent views across the water to the islands and western peaks, making it a rewarding day out for walkers and their dogs.
Dogs can enjoy good off lead time through the wooded sections, though leads are advisable near any grazing areas and during busy periods at Balmaha. The terrain is mostly well surfaced forest track with some rougher, undulating sections through the woods north of Sallochy. Balmaha has a large car park with toilets, a visitor centre, and several cafes. The walk can be done as an out and back to any turnaround point, or arranged as a point to point with a bus or boat return.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 12.5 km (7.8 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland, Lake
- Route Type
- Out and Back
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Toilets, visitor centre, and cafes at Balmaha; no facilities en route beyond Sallochy.
- Parking
- Large pay and display car park in the centre of Balmaha village.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Loch Lomond East Shore from Balmaha dog friendly?
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.
Can dogs be off lead at Loch Lomond East Shore from Balmaha?
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.
What should I know before visiting Loch Lomond East Shore from Balmaha with my dog?
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.
Visitor Reviews
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