The best walks and hikes around Glasgow

Yes, the area around Glasgow is excellent for family outings. John Topits Park loop — Coos Bay is an easy walk suitable for all ages. Additionally, Mugdock Country Park is a local favorite, offering accessible paths, play areas, and historic castle ruins to explore. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park also has numerous gentle trails perfect for a family day out.

Many trails around Glasgow are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or during bird nesting season. Country parks like Dams to Darnley Country Park offer varied landscapes for you and your dog to explore. Just be mindful that some areas may have specific restrictions, so always check local signage.

There are several great circular routes available. The Horsfall Beach & Bluebill Lake loop offers a pleasant circuit through coastal dunes and forest. For a shorter option, the Lower Empire Lake – Upper Empire Lake loop provides a straightforward and enjoyable walk.

Yes, Glasgow is a fantastic base for tackling more demanding climbs. Within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, you'll find 21 Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet). Ben Lomond is one of the most popular and offers a strenuous but rewarding full-day hike with incredible views. For a different kind of challenge, the The North Spit loop — Coos Bay is a long, moderate walk that will test your endurance over 11 miles.

Many trailheads are accessible via public transport. For example, the iconic West Highland Way starts in Milngavie, which is easily reached by train from Glasgow Central. To reach popular spots like Conic Hill in Balmaha, you can often take a combination of trains and local buses. It's always a good idea to check timetables in advance as services can be less frequent in rural areas.

If you're new to hiking, Glasgow has plenty of easy routes to get you started. The Downtown Coos Bay loop is a mostly paved, gentle walk. For a more natural setting, the trails within Seven Lochs Wetland Park offer peaceful and well-maintained paths that are perfect for building confidence.

For spectacular views, Conic Hill is a top choice, offering a steep but short climb to a stunning panorama over Loch Lomond and its islands. The Campsie Fells to the north of the city also provide dramatic landscapes and far-reaching views from their volcanic escarpments.

Yes, many popular hiking spots have options for refreshments. After climbing Conic Hill, you'll find shops and pubs in the village of Balmaha at the bottom of the trail. Similarly, Mugdock Country Park has its own cafe, making it a convenient place to relax after exploring its extensive grounds.

Scottish weather is famously changeable, so it's essential to be prepared. For any hike, you should bring:

• Waterproof jacket and trousers: Rain can appear unexpectedly.
• Sturdy, waterproof footwear: Trails can be muddy and uneven.
• Extra layers: A fleece or warm mid-layer is crucial, as it can be cold and windy at higher elevations.
• Map and compass (and know how to use them): Don't rely solely on your phone, as signal can be unreliable.
• Food and water: Pack more than you think you'll need.

The West Highland Way, a famous 96-mile long-distance trail, officially starts in Milngavie, a town on the northern outskirts of Glasgow. You can easily get to the starting point by taking a direct train from Glasgow Central or Queen Street stations to Milngavie station. The start is a short walk from there.

The routes around Glasgow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible variety, from the accessible paths in the city's country parks to the challenging mountain ascents in the nearby national park.