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  1. Home
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  3. National Parks
  4. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Loch Katrine, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Come for Loch Lomond. Stay for the forests, mountains, islands and hidden glens that make this corner of Scotland unforgettable.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park at a glance

  • Active & adventure:

    Walking, hiking, cycling, watersports, sailing, fishing, golf

  • Food & drink:

    Loch Lomond Brewery, Glengoyne Distillery, local venison and game

  • Nature & outdoors:

    Ben Lomond, Ben More, Loch Lomond, Loch Katrine, Inversnaid

  • Wildlife:

    Golden eagles, red deer, otters, pine martens, mountain hares

Map of Scotland

What to expect in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Imagine the unmistakable landscape of Loch Lomond, where glassy waters give way to quiet Trossachs glens, ancient woodland and rugged Highland peaks. Follow forest paths, watch mountains reflected in still water and listen to birdsong as you explore. Around every bend, discover something to linger over – a secluded shore, a dramatic viewpoint or a landscape that feels special every time you return. 

Highlights of the National Park

Walk into the wild 

Boots on the trail, ancient woodlands surrounding you and mountains opening out ahead – there’s no better way to feel the character of the park than on foot. Wander through the forests around Cashel, feel the cool spray of Bracklinn Falls on your face, or climb Ben A’an until the lochs and glens stretch out beneath you. For bigger adventures, rise above the treeline on Ben Lomond or follow a long-distance trail deep into the landscape.  

Discover walks and hikes: 

  • Hills - The Cobbler, Ben A’an, Conic Hill, Callander Crags 
  • Munros - Beinn Ime, Ben Vorlich, Ben Lomond, Ben More 
  • Short routes - Bracklinn Falls Circuit, Cashel Forest Paths, The Trossachs Trail 
  • Long-distance walks - West Highland Way, Rob Roy Way, John Muir Way 
  • Waterfall walks - Bracklinn Falls, Falls of Dochart 

Discover more walks and hikes

Find more ideas for climbing 

Ben Arthur

Cycle into the landscape 

Fresh Highland air, quiet roads, forest tracks and the freedom of the open road – nothing beats the feeling of riding towards your next great view. Pedal through pine-scented forests, skim the shores of shimmering lochs and climb beneath rugged peaks. From the easy-going West Loch Lomond cycle path to the trails around Loch Venachar and Loch Eck, there’s a route to suit every kind of adventure.  

  • Family-friendly cycling trails - Rob Roy Loop, West Loch Lomond cycle path 
  • Mountain biking - Three Glens Route, Loch Venachar Circuit, Loch Eck Loop 
  • Follow National Cycle Routes 7 through the heart of the National Park. 
  • Guided experiences - eBike tours of the Trossachs 

Discover more cycling routes

Family cycling at Loch Venachar

© Sustrans / Andy Mccandlish

Take to the water

It’s hard to visit the National Park without being drawn straight away to its magical lochs. See the landscape from the water, with mountains rising around you and islands drifting past. Cruise across Loch Lomond, glide along the tranquil waters of Loch Katrine or venture onto the western sea lochs. Paddle into quiet bays, kayak beneath the peaks, catch the wind while sailing or feel the thrill of windsurfing across the open water. 

Cruising & boating: 

  • Loch Lomond - catch a cruise from Balloch with Sweeney’s Cruise Co, or from Luss, Tarbet or Balmaha with Cruise Loch Lomond. 
  • Loch Katrine - sail from Trossachs Pier aboard one of the four boats: Sir Walter Scott Steamship, Lady of the Lake and Rob Roy III, with Osprey available for private charters. 
  • Waterbus services - hop between lochside destinations on scheduled waterbus services around Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine – a scenic way to see even more of the park without getting back in the car. 

Find more information on cruising. 

Learn about boating on Loch Lomond, the Byelaws and how to register your vessel. 

Water activities: 

  • Loch Lomond Leisure – watersports, boat hire and adventures on the loch. 
  • Loch Lomond Water Ski Club – feel the rush with waterskiing on Loch Lomond. 
  • Water safety advice – stay safe and enjoy the lochs responsibly.

Explore more water activities and sports

Steamship Sir Walter Scott

Sleep beneath the stars 

Leave the last light of the day behind and settle into the stillness of the park. Wake to mist lifting from the lochs, birdsong in the trees and mountains waiting beyond your door – whether you choose a forest hideaway, a night beneath canvas, or an evening spent stargazing beneath a sky full of stars. 

  • Camping & campsites – pitch up beside lochs, beneath the trees or close to the trails. 
  • Glamping – sleep under canvas with a little more comfort, from cosy pods to stylish cabins. 
  • Wild camping – go beyond the campsite and sleep closer to nature, choosing your own spot among wild landscapes. 
  • Stargazing – look up after dark and enjoy clear, star-filled skies away from the glow of the city. 

Find out more about camping in the park

Learn more about stargazing in the park

Looking out of Loch Lomond from Inveruglas

See the National Park through a new lens

In need of more inspiration for your next trip? Take a look at what our visitors to the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park have to say about this region.

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Find your way through the National Park

Four distinct areas, each with its own character, landscapes and adventures. From lochside villages and ancient forests to Highland peaks and wild glens, discover where you want to explore.

Loch Lomond

Head to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond with plenty of things to see & do for day trips and holiday inspiration.

The Trossachs

Explore Aberfoyle, Callander and Loch Katrine, where forested hills, winding roads and shimmering lochs define the Trossachs.

Cowal

Discover Loch Eck, Argyll Forest Park and Loch Long, where ancient woodland meets rugged mountains and quiet waters.

Breadalbane

Venture to Killin, Loch Earn and Glen Dochart, where Highland peaks rise above rushing rivers, waterfalls and open glens.

Inspiring Scotland travel blogs

Find all the Scottish holiday inspiration your need in our Scotland travel blog.

Explore the forest parks

Go beyond the well-known views and discover the wilder side of the ational Park – from ancient forests and nature reserves to protected landscapes where wildlife thrives.

Queen Elizabeth Forest Park

Explore Loch Ard, wind through the Duke’s Pass and Three Lochs Forest Drive or take to the treetops at Go Ape Aberfoyle.

Argyll Forest Park

Head to Britain’s oldest forest park and admire giant trees at Benmore or discover waterfalls of Puck’s Glen.

The Great Trossachs Forest Nature Reserve

Discover one of Scotland’s largest woodland restoration projects, where native forests, lochs and mountains create a haven for wildlife.

Trip ideas

Wind past shimmering lochs, through ancient forests and over mountain passes, with a new view waiting around every bend. Slow down, pull over safely and let the landscape set the pace.

Duke's Pass

Twist and turn through the Trossachs, climbing high above the trees for sweeping views across the hills.

Three Lochs Forest Drive

Leave the main road behind and wind through ancient woodland, with three beautiful lochs waiting along the way.

The A82 Loch Lomond

Follow the western shore of Loch Lomond, where every bend brings another postcard-worthy view of one of Scotland’s most famous lochs.

Rest and Be Thankful

Stop high above Glen Croe and take in the dramatic sweep of the valley – a view worth pulling over for.

Plan your trip

Getting to the National Park

Bus and coach

Citylink services connect the park with both Glasgow and Edinburgh, with routes continuing north to Fort William and the Isle of Skye, and west to Oban and Campbeltown.


Train

Regular ScotRail services connect the park with Glasgow, while Avanti West Coast services link Glasgow with destinations across England.


Driving

  • From Glasgow – around 35 minutes – take the A82 via Dumbarton to Balloch and Loch Lomond. 
  • From Edinburgh – around 1 hour 30 minutes – take the M9 towards Stirling, then the A84 for the Trossachs or the A811 for Loch Lomond. 
  • From Inverness – around 3 hours 30 minutes – follow the A82 south directly to the National Park. 
  • From Manchester – around 4 hours – take the M6, then the A74(M)/M74 into Scotland, and join the A82 near Glasgow. 
  • From London – around 7 hours 30 minutes – take the M1 or M40 to the M6, then the A74(M)/M74 and A82 to the National Park. 

Accessibility

Many parts of the parks are easily accessible.   

There are accessible walks, attractions, accommodation, toilets, parking and visitor facilities across the National Park. Accessibility varies by location, so check individual places before you visit for details on paths, facilities, transport and parking. You can also find accessible outdoor experiences and routes designed to help more people enjoy the park’s landscapes. 

Ideas for wheelchair-friendly days out by Simply Emma 

Plan your accessible adventure in the park 

More useful information on accessibility within the park 

Explore nearby

From picturesque seaside towns to awe-inpiring landscapes, explore the nearby regions beyond the National Park and discover a whole new side to Scotland.

Argyll & Bute

Explore Scotland’s wild west coast and uncover its world-famous whisky heritage and rugged landscapes.

Perthshire

Explore Perthshire, where ancient history, thrilling outdoor adventures and charming towns come together for an unforgettable escape.

Oban

Nestled between hills and the open sea, Oban is the perfect base for countless west coast adventures.

Forth Valley

Welcome to the centre of Scotland. See The Kelpies, climb the National Wallace Monument and enjoy outdoor adventures with the whole family.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park?

Every season brings something different. Spring brings fresh colour and wildlife, summer offers long days outdoors, autumn transforms the forests with beautiful colours and winter brings quieter trails and dramatic landscapes.


How long should I stay in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park?

A 2-3 night stay is a great starting point, giving you time to explore the lochs, trails, villages and scenic routes without rushing. Stay longer for a deeper escape – 4-7 days gives you more time for bigger walks, outdoor adventures, island trips and discovering different corners of the park.


Where to stay in the National Park?

Wake up beside a loch, beneath the trees or in the heart of a village. From cosy inns and welcoming B&Bs to self-catering cottages, stylish lodges, glamping and campsites, there’s a stay to suit every kind of escape. 

Find accommodation in Loch Lomond


Can I camp in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park?

Yes. There are campsites, glamping options and designated areas for camping. During the camping management season, different rules apply in parts of the park, so check the latest guidance before you go. 

Find out more about Camping Management Byelaws and get a permit


Is there mobile phone coverage across Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park?

Coverage can be limited in some remote and mountainous areas. Download maps and important information before heading out, and don’t rely solely on your phone for navigation or emergency communication. 


What should I pack for a visit in the National Park?

Scotland’s weather can change quickly, so bring waterproofs and warm layers whatever the season. For outdoor adventures, pack suitable footwear, food and water, a map or navigation device and any equipment you need for your activity.


What are the key towns in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park?

The key towns and villages include Aberfoyle, Balloch, Callander, Killin, Luss and Tarbet, each offering a gateway to the park’s lochs, mountains, forests and outdoor adventures. 


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