The Great Trossachs Path 2

Route Description for The Great Trossachs Path 2

Similar to the first section of The Great Trossachs Path, the section from Trossachs Pier to Callander is well marked with The Great Trossachs Path Tree logo. From the car park at Trossachs Pier follow the minor road leading away from Loch Katrine, after just over half a kilometer follow signs to turn right onto a tarred lane leading gently uphill from a layby. 450 m further along take the path off to the left leading over a pretty footbridge, signposted for Ben Venue.

After crossing the bridge turn left at the junction, following this wider track turn right at the next junction and then left just a little further on. The track winds through the woodland offering occasional views across to Ben A’an and down to Loch Achray and the impressive Tigh Mor (former hotel) on the far side of the water.

Upon reaching a main road (A821), cross straight-ahead, passing through a car park, cross a road bridge and then turn left onto a forest track. The route follows this track, turn left at the next junction and then bear left at a fork. As you near the shores of Loch Achray the track bends sharply to the right, ignore the track off to the left. The track runs along the south shore of the Loch, eventually leaving the woodland behind. At the junction turn left to follow the route through Achray Farm, passing the main buildings.

From here, the route follows the course of the Black Water River. Turn left to cross the river over an old stone bridge then bear left to follow the small lane passing the Byre Inn on your left, a possible lunch stop if you have forgotten your sandwiches, before again reaching the A821. Turn right to follow the pavement to the small hamlet of Brig O’Turk, further opportunities for refreshment available here! The pavement ends and the route continues down a grassy track leading away to the right. Continue ahead until again meeting the A821, carefully cross, and continue on the far side until reaching the Glen Finglas car park. Toilet facilities are available here and local information from within the Glen Finglas Visitor Centre.

From the car park follow signs over a small footbridge, through a gate and then turn left, the path now swings to the right and begins to climb. Continue ahead following the path as it climbs steeply through the woodland, at a T-junction turn right and follow the path as it continues upon a gentler gradient.

The path continues ahead undulating as it goes high above Loch Venachar, uninterrupted views ahead and behind make for extremely pleasant walking. After passing through two gates the path drops down to cross a small river within some woodland, ignoring the path to the right continue ahead to pass through another gate, the path bears rights and then left before passing through another gate.

Following the contour of the hill, the route eventually drops down into Bochastle car park. Cross the road and follow the path to enter a second car park. Bear left to join the cycle track along the old railway line. From here the cycle path leads all the way to Callander emerging at the Riverside car park. In Callander, the main street and the buzz of activity of a beautiful highland town are easily accessible. There is much to be recommended within the town and plenty of spots to tempt you for celebratory pint/coffee/cake/fish supper- you choose! We have had very good meals at the Riverside Inn.

Check out more amazing walks in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, like the Ben A'an, Ben Venue, Ben Lomond, or Loch Venachar.

Insider Hints for The Great Trossachs Path 2

• If you have two cars available park one half-way at Trossachs pier with overnight bags, then pick up car from start point and move to endpoint on day 2 to lighten your luggage and avoid public transport.
• Wild camping is permitted around the shores of Loch Venachar however, a permit must be purchased from the National Park Authority (book in advance as they are limited!) There are some beautiful spots to camp particularly on the quieter south shore of Loch Venachar.