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Natural attractions

Queen Elizabeth Forest Park

4.8 · 1,440 reviews
Rugged and expansive wilderness
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Scottish Highlands, Stirling FK8 3SX, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The park was established in 1950, named to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

2

It features a 200-meter long cable-way through the forest canopy at the Go Ape site near Aberfoyle.

3

The park's geology includes the Highland Boundary Fault, which marks the division between the Scottish Lowlands and Highlands.

4

Loch Katrine, situated within the park, has provided Glasgow's main water supply since 1859.

5

The park contains the site of a 19th-century slate quarry, now reclaimed by woodland trails.

Overview

Queen Elizabeth Forest Park spans nearly 200 square miles across the Trossachs and the eastern side of Loch Lomond. It is managed by Forestry and Land Scotland, encompassing vast woodland, heathland, and mountainous terrain. The park serves as a primary gateway to the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, featuring the iconic Duke's Pass drive. Trails within the park cater to varying fitness levels, from the accessible Loch Katrine perimeter to the strenuous ascent of Ben Venue. It is a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, offering limited light pollution for stargazing. The David Marshall Lodge serves as a focal point for visitors, housing exhibition spaces and viewpoints overlooking the Achray valley. The forest terrain is a mix of conifer plantations and native woodland remnants, supporting diverse wildlife including red squirrels and ospreys.

Photo spot

The viewpoint at the David Marshall Lodge overlooking the Achray Forest and Ben Venue.

Insider tips

Carry waterproof gear regardless of the forecast, as highland weather systems shift rapidly.

Use the Forestry and Land Scotland app to download offline trail maps, as cellular service is intermittent in the valleys.

Park at the Lodge Forest Visitor Centre to access the main trailheads and facility amenities.

What to avoid

Attempting remote mountain trails without proper navigation equipment or hiking footwear.

Etiquette

Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code: keep dogs under control, do not pick wildflowers, and take all litter home.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in late spring or early autumn to avoid peak summer crowds and midges.
Address
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Scottish Highlands, Stirling FK8 3SX, United Kingdom
56.168, -4.451
Get directions
Details
Trail TypesForest tracks, mountain summits, and accessible loch-side paths
Visitor FacilitiesRestrooms, exhibition center, and café at The Lodge

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in late spring or early autumn to avoid peak summer crowds and midges..

The viewpoint at the David Marshall Lodge overlooking the Achray Forest and Ben Venue.

Close by you'll find Three Lochs Forest Drive, Conic Hill, Loch Lomond.