Stirling
Unwind on Stirling's Most Scenic Walking Trails
Unwind on Stirling's Most Scenic Walking Trails
The Summit of Gillies Hill by Richard Webb under license CC BY-SA 4.0
The table above lists all the best forest walking trails near Stirling. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that walk.
Located right along the edge of the gorgeous Scottish region known as the Trossachs, Stirling is one place definitely worth visiting. With its lush green forests and stunning landscapes not far from the city, the area has something to offer every type of nature lover! From incredible wildlife to quiet streams slicing through meadows, there's no better place in Scotland to escape into tranquility while also enjoying some truly breathtaking sights. Whether you're surrounding yourself with greenery on daily walks over pathways leading through serene forest grounds or immersing your senses in peaceful outdoor surroundings for days at a time – let us assure you: once your take that first step into Stirling's picturesque countryside it will be an experience like no other. You can take in the breathtaking views from the summit of Gillies Hill, spot the red squirrels at Devilla Forest or explore the 234 acres at Callendar Wood and try all the activities on offer.
Once you've read up on the forest walks to try near the central Scottish city of Stirling, why not have a look at our posts for the activities that are available to do in this area. You can find them on the following buttons below:
Stirling Walks FAQ's
Yes you can! There is a circular trail of around 3.5 miles that takes you around the castle and through the city. An easy track suitable for all levels and will take just over an hour to complete - perfect for a stroll to get your bearings around the city walls and a great way to spend time outdoors while surrounded by scenic views at the same time.
There are plenty of great places to walk in the city and in the green spaces outwith! Some favourites include the circular walk round the castle, Gillies Hill and the Carron Valley Reservoir. You can also find some great walking trails through the nearby forested areas. Be sure to check out the rest of this blog post for more information. Enjoy!
11 Of The Best Stirling Walking Trails Not Far From The City
In this blog post, we will be listing the many Stirling walking trails.
Scotland has many green spaces to explore and Stirling offers a chance to tick a few forest walks off your list! 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.
Garshellach
Garshellach Forest is the perfect spot for your next outdoor walk. Not only is it a great way to take in the stunning natural beauty of central Scotland, it also has plenty of historical landmarks that you can see across the surrounding countryside; none more so than Stirling Castle. Covering 427 acres, the forest has a walking trail of around 7km’s and provides fine views across the Forth Valley.
Pendreich
The scenic forest is located on the slopes of the Black Hill above the Bridge of Allan, and offers a short walk of under 1km to stretch the legs after a day of sightseeing. Visitors will be able to appreciate the peace and serenity that comes with walking through the sycamore woods, while enjoying views through the trees along the way.
Balquidderock Wood
Balquidderock Wood is a beautiful and captivating forest on the outskirts of the city. With lush forestry full of large oak trees, the forest has been listed as a Special Site of Scientific Interest. The woodland is also home to many wildlife species such as roe deer, rabbits and more; so don’t forget to bring along your binoculars for some wonderful animal spotting opportunities!
Gartmorn
Gartmorn Forest is the perfect place for a peaceful walk or an invigorating hike in nature. Located on the edge of Gartmorn Dam Country Park, the forest features 3 miles of footpaths designed to make visitors feel at ease within the woodland. Filled with lush greenery, birdlife and pheasants, Gartmorn Forest provides a calming atmosphere to those who explore its grounds.
Gillies Hill
Located west of the city, this large green expanse is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from different bird species to deer and other woodland creatures. Here you can enjoy peaceful walks through lush forest trails and breathtaking vistas while experiencing a sense of calm amidst nature’s beauty. Gillies Hill is packed full of history and has ties to the famous Battle of Bannockburn as the place that Robert the Bruce’s men descended from onto the battlefield.
Fishing boats, Carron Valley Reservoir by Richard Sutcliffe under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Carron Valley
If you're looking for a scenic and rustic walking experience next time you explore Stirling, set aside some time to visit Carron Valley. Located southwest of the city, the woodland is considered one of the top forest walks in the region. From trails winding through picturesque native trees and breathtaking panoramic views - this place has something to cater to every taste.
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Larbert Woods
Set just a few miles south of the city, this beautiful forest is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and take in the natural surroundings in the grounds of the Forth Valley Royal Hospital. It's perfect for those who enjoy a shorter walk; boasting three easy trails and plenty of wildlife such as dragonflies, squirrels and roe deer.
Meikle Bin
If you are looking for a great place for a strenuous hike with the promise of views stretching for miles, then you need to scale the peak of Meikle Bin! The trail starts off winding through an expanse of luscious woodland with plenty of opportunities to explore before you start the incline. Allow yourself around 4 hours to complete the 6.5 mile walk up and back.
Picnic table, Devilla Forest by Richard Webb under license CC BY-SA 4.0
Devilla
With its abundance of greenery and local lochs, Devilla forest is an excellent spot for walking, jogging and horse riding. Plus, if you're looking to experience something unique to the area, the forest is well known to be a great place to spot red squirrels. Whether you're looking to take in some breathtaking landscapes or just want a peaceful stroll in the woods spotting some of Scotland’s loved creatures - Devilla Forest is sure to offer something for everyone.
Balgownie
Balgownie Forest is a beautiful nature reserve located in the nearby county of Fife. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll among ancient oak trees, listen to the soothing sound of birdsong and breathe in the fragrant woodland air. The forest is also home to 2.5 miles of trails which is perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Callendar Wood
If you're searching for a peaceful and refreshing respite during your next trip to Stirling, look no further than Callendar Wood. This immaculately-preserved 234 hectare ancient woodland is at least 500 years old and is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll under its age-old trees or a more strenuous hike in its beautiful landscape. Located in the grounds of Callendar House near Falkirk, the woodland has many activities available for the whole family.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have shared some of the woodland walks near Stirling. To find out more about free things to do in the area, click on the buttons below:
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!
Crown Copyright, courtesy Forestry and Land Scotland (19/12/22) licensed under the Open Government License.