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    Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1.5-2.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    6.8 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    160 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk

    The Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk is a scenic, 6.8 km circular walk that invites you to take in the beautiful scenery of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and provides the opportunity to explore Rob Roy's Cave. Known as a folk hero in Scotland, outlaw Rob Roy is said to have hidden in the cave in the mid-1700s, and hillwalkers can brave the 2 m drop to explore his hideout on this walk. The hike also features stunning views of Loch Ard and the Ghleannain Loch.

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    Route Description for Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk

    The Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk unfolds in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park's spellbinding landscapes, just west of Aberfoyle, UK. The moderate, circular route is great for dogs and humans alike and features the infamous Rob Roy's cave hideout. The drop to the cave is around 2 m, and caution should be taken for those looking to explore it. The entire trail is waymarked in red, making for easy navigation.

    From the Loch Ard Forestry car park, begin the walk down the track that leads from the parking area, keeping your eyes peeled for the wooden "Inversnaid" sign. Follow the forest trail, veering right where the trail forks. You'll soon walk past a picnic table and a lovely lochan, which during summer, features beautiful water lilies.

    From the Lochan, follow the track uphill through the forest, taking a right at the junction, crossing a barrier. At the next junction, head left, embarking on a downhill stretch. Follow the red waymarkers, veering right onto a wide-open track that opens to Loch Ard. Keep your eyes peeled for the hidden sculpture in the trees, visible from the track.

    The trail departs the loch and invites you to continue left at the next junction on a footpath that leads to beautiful views on the shores of Loch Ard. Continue the path through the trees, and you'll soon stumble upon the famous Rob Roy cave, located directly below the route, which you can explore at your leisure, however, caution should be taken as it's an 2 m drop to the cave. When the path returns to the main track, take a left and continue the loop back to the starting point. Enjoy views of Ben Lomond on clear days by looking back on the trail as the loop concludes.

    Getting to the Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk Trailhead

    From Aberfoyle, take the B829 heading west, and follow signs for the Loch Ard Forestry car park. A few miles west on the B829 will lead you to the parking area found on your left.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      Year-Round Access

    • Backcountry Campsites

      Loch Chon Campsite

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk Elevation Graph

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    Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk Reviews

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