Glasgow
Looking for the best forest walks near Glasgow? We list the 25 best trails below!
Looking for the best forest walks near Glasgow? We list the 25 best trails below!
The west coast of Scotland and Glasgow's forests are some of the most beautiful in the country. You can climb to the top of Kilpatrick Braes for views over the River Clyde, walk the beach at Boden Boo, or check out the old woodland at Garscadden Wood. The trees in the forests listed are so tall and green and the walks are a peaceful and enjoyable getaway from the busy city. If you're looking for a relaxing day out, I highly recommend visiting one of Glasgow's forests listed in the content below.
Lennox Forest, Whin Dyke by Robert Murray under license CC BY-SA 4.0
The table above lists all the best forest walks near Glasgow. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that walk.
25 amazing Glasgow forests you should visit
In this blog post, we will be listing the many forest walks near Glasgow.
There's nothing better than getting away from city life for a few hours and taking in what nature has to offer. Have a look below at the forest walks available on the interactive map and click on the buttons below the map for each walk, to be taken to the Forestry Commission pages for further information on the forest trails.
Cuningar Loop
Guide your way through an array of unique experiences at Cuningar Loop. Along the riverside boardwalk or forest trails, enjoy scenic views while strolling and exploring nature's beauty! There are plenty of picnic spots for those looking to get out into Scotland’s natural environment—and fun things like the bike skills area that will keep you active too!
Seven Lochs Wetland Park (Cardowan)
The diversity of plants and animals at Cardowan is exceptional. The raised bog has a distinctive ecosystem with water-loving species growing amidst heather and moor grass, where dragonflies can be seen hunting amongst the ponds that dot this moist landscape throughout the summer months when you're lucky enough to have good weather!
Auchenshuggle
During the mile-long walk of Auchenshuggle Wood there are quiet spots where you can enjoy nature's beauty while strolling through this lush green forest. Wildlife thrives in these woods, so keep your eyes peeled for deer or foxes who may drop In on their way across the forest!
Seven Lochs Wetland Park (Todds Well)
Todd's Well is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. The well-maintained trails offer a mix of open heath, wildflower meadows, and young woodland. On clear days you can see rolling farmland as far as Ben Lomond adding stunning views to a forest that offers plenty already.
Cochno Loch from Cochno Hill by Stephen Sweeney under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Bishop Loch
Sitting on the edge of Easterhouse, the diverse landscape at Bishop Loch is ideal for exploring on foot, bike, or horseback. This area has a rich variety of wildlife and provides scenic views with bulrushes as well as willow scrubland being present too! In the summertime, many colourful wildflowers attract insects & butterflies to the scene making it all so much more captivating than ever before.
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Greenoakhill
The transformation of this former landfill site into a green oasis is now complete with the opening of its first phase at Greenoakhill. The newly planted trees and paths provide visitors an opportunity for relaxation, whilst also providing them views over the River Clyde.
Seven Lochs Wetland Park (Lochend Burn)
Let your eyes feast on the beautiful meadow and fields beyond as you walk beside Lochend Burn. In summer, this grassy area is full of wildflowers that buzz with insects-colourful butterflies flying around marshy banks or dragonflies zipping between pools of water at alarming speeds! The path alongside it makes great territory for jogging, walking or pushing the little ones along in their pushchair!
Garscadden Wood (East)
While you stand among the old oaks of this ancient woodland, a local nature reserve in Glasgow where one can enjoy and learn more about wildlife; it's easy to forget that we're still right here in Glasgow. The two Woods at Garscadden are important because they both contain a species found hardly anywhere else in the city - the purple hairstreak butterfly!
Garscadden Wood (West)
This is a wonderful spot for nature lovers. You can enjoy many different types of trees, including native Scottish species like red-berried rowan and hawthorns in the shade while you take your lunch break from work or enjoy an afternoon stroll with friends. With views across the city as well, the forest at Garscadden Wood (West) is highly recommended.
Cleddans Burn
Follow the wide, surfaced path at Cleddans Burn through this lovely patch of open grassland and young woodland. You'll discover spectacular views across to Kilpatrick Hills on your own as well as spotting wildlife along the trail.
Old Mine Nature Park
The Old Mine Nature Park is a former industrial site that has been reclaimed by Mother Nature. The paths meander through the vast green spaces, and it's easy to get lost while exploring this large space with so many connections between routes! You'll find great views down towards Glasgow so if you're looking for some fresh air or just need something different than what your city surroundings offer, pay a visit to this unique forest walk.
Cochno Hill
The climb to this grassy peak above Greenside Reservoir at Cochno Hill is tough but a lot of fun and will give you that remote feeling, as well as spectacular views over Glasgow or even down to the Pentland Hills on a clear day. About 1 mile-long tracks lead up here where they have different types of trails such as forest roads, stone paths, and rough grassy paths which make navigation easy for anyone who wants to explore what's around them!
Boden Boo
Located next to the Erskine Bridge, Boden Boo is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists and families. The wooded area has about 2 miles of trails that are great to explore on foot or by bike with an easy-to-walk path with some moderate slopes.
The path on the Kilpatrick Braes by Stephen Sweeney under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Kilpatrick Braes
Head to the Kilpatrick Braes above Old Kilpatrick and hike up to the peaceful Loch Humphrey. The historic forest tracks that crisscross this area are great for walking or mountain biking, so explore what lies ahead while being sure not to miss out on any of its beauty! You will be able to enjoy stunning views from along your journey including those over Glasgow and central Scotland.
Windyhill
Windyhill leads up through birch and oak woodland to views of Paisley and Glasgow with the Kilpatrick Hills also in sight. Continue towards Brandyburn waterfall - an ideal spot for locals who want some peace & quiet but not too much distance from town!
Rannoch Woods
The serene, tall trees of the mature Rannoch Woods provide a great place for those seeking fresh air. Listen in spring and summer as the birds sing their songs amongst these ancient beech branches covered with colourful leaves that turn golden brown during autumn before being shed off completely every year. Can get muddy at different times of the year so watch out for periods of rain before you set off.
Bluebell Wood
If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is it at Bluebell Wood! The 4 ½ miles of path meander through peaceful woodlands above Johnstone. With some rocky outcrops that make great spots for a pit stop, waiting children or families can get their fill of fresh air while they play among its natural beauty--what more could anyone ask?
Lennox Forest
Lennox Forest is criss-crossed with wide, winding roads that make it easy to find a circuit just the right length for your walk or ride. You can start from Lennoxtown or follow bridleways which will take you into nearby Torrance as well if desired; there are glimpses of long views down towards Glasgow making this trail a popular one with locals all year round.
Rawyards
Take a short walk through Rawyards at the heart of the community to clear away all thoughts and find peace. With wildlife-watching opportunities, picnic spots or just relaxing in tranquil surroundings - enjoy being in nature encircled by greenery!
Wester Moffat
Wester Moffat is a lovely place for a stroll, picnic, or walk with the dog beside the Calder Water. There’s just over 1 mile of paths through this wood that is ideal if you want to get some fresh air and exercise - but be prepared because it does have some long moderate slopes! An easier route has been added for beginners looking for an easier trail.
Overtoun House Nature Trail by Lairich Rig under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Bar Hill
As you climb Bar Hill, the forest is a colourful patchwork of broadleaf and conifer trees. There are wonderful views of the Forth and Clyde Canal as you climb, with its waters connecting parts of central Scotland. On top is a Roman fort that stands guard over what once was an ancient kingdom and the Antonine Wall.
Howwood
From the wide, uneven gravel paths that lead up a steep hill through ancient woodland and grassland comes one of nature’s best panoramas with views over Kilpatrick Hills as well as Ben Lomond. Best to remember the camera for this one at Howwood!
Nethercroy
The Croy Hill has some of the best preserved sections of the Antonine Wall that once stretched over 37 miles long. This was once part Roman Empire's northernmost frontier but is now gorgeous woods where butterflies thrive and newts call home as well! In summertime, there are flowers everywhere including sweetly scenting lesser and white orchids which can be found at Nethercroy too!
Campsie Glen
From the pretty village of Clachan, with its historic church and winding grassy slopes into a glen full of surprises. Stop for snacks or take in some sunlight at one of these scenic picnic spots beneath trees at Campsie Glen that provide shade on hot days!
Overtoun House
If you're looking for a place to explore, then Overtoun House is an ideal starting point. It's not only beautiful but also full of history and mystery! You can also marvel at the new native woodlands or head higher up towards soaring Lang Craigs for stunning views along the River Clyde with open waters beyond it!
Please note...
All outdoor activities including forest walks involve a degree of risk. The walks are recommended due to the well known features of each forest but this may change over time and further research is required before undertaking any activity. The weather can also impact the surface and general conditions of each path so please keep yourself updated with the weather forecast before setting off to enjoy your walk!
Conclusion
The forests in Glasgow are stunning. They offer many different things to do and see. I recommend going on a walk or through one of their forest parks if you want to experience them firsthand! With plenty available, you have many to tick off your list. To find out more things to do in the area, click on the links below:
Crown Copyright, courtesy Forestry and Land Scotland (16/08/22) licensed under the Open Government License.