Easy hikes and walks around Southesk

Southesk offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. Our guide features 5 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed outing or a family adventure.

The region is beautiful year-round, but late spring through early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant weather for easy hikes. During these months, you'll experience vibrant flora, active wildlife, and more predictable conditions. Winter can be stunning, especially in the higher glens, but requires more preparation due to snow and ice.

Absolutely! Many of the easy trails in Southesk are ideal for families. For example, the French Fort Cove loop is a shorter, gentle option. The region's diverse landscapes, from woodlands to riverside paths, offer engaging experiences for all ages.

Many easy trails in Southesk are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The Fish Quarry Trail Loop is a great option for a walk with your canine companion.

Yes, several easy circular routes are available, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Fish Quarry Trail Loop and the French Fort Cove loop are excellent examples of easy circular walks.

Southesk boasts a rich variety of natural features. While some dramatic landscapes like Corrie Fee are found on more challenging routes, easy trails often offer views of diverse glens, woodlands, and rivers. You might spot wildlife such as red deer or various bird species. The coastal path near Ferryden offers views towards the historic Scurdie Ness Lighthouse and opportunities to see marine wildlife like grey seals.

Yes, the region offers lovely riverside and coastal paths suitable for easy walks. The River South Esk provides picturesque stretches, and further downstream, the coastal path from Ferryden towards the Scurdie Ness Lighthouse offers refreshing sea air and views of rocky shores. The Strawberry Marsh Trail offers a gentle walk near water.

Even on easy trails, Southesk provides rewarding views. Many paths through the glens offer sweeping vistas of the valleys and rolling hills. For a specific landmark with views, the Airlie Monument on Tulloch Hill, though a slightly more uphill walk, offers wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding heather and blueberry-covered landscape.

Parking is generally available at or near the trailheads for many popular easy hikes in Southesk. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local visitor information sites. It's always advisable to check details for your chosen route in advance.

While some areas of Southesk are accessible by public transport, particularly larger towns, many trailheads for easy hikes in the more rural glens may require a car. It's recommended to check local bus services for specific routes and timings if you plan to rely on public transport. For more information on the wider Wild South Esk Trail, you can visit VisitAngus.

Amenities like cafes and pubs are typically found in the villages and towns scattered throughout the Southesk region, rather than directly at every trailhead. Planning your hike to pass through or end near a village will give you access to refreshments. Glen Clova, for instance, has facilities that can be a good stop after exploring nearby easy paths.

The easy trails in Southesk are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, well-maintained paths, and the beautiful natural surroundings that make for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.