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Parks #1 in Bonhill

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

4.8 · 13,752 reviews
Vast and untamed wilderness.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Balloch, Alexandria G83 8QX, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

Loch Lomond serves as the boundary between the Lowlands and the Highlands of Scotland.

2

The park contains the Arrochar Alps, a range of peaks known for their jagged ridges and steep climbs.

3

Inchtavannach island features an ancient yew woodland, some trees estimated to be over 200 years old.

4

The Highland Boundary Fault line, a major geological feature, runs directly through the park.

5

Loch Lomond’s depth reaches approximately 600 feet at its deepest point near Inversnaid.

6

The park authority operates a 'You Check, We Clean' campaign to prevent the spread of invasive non-native species in lochs.

7

Ben Lomond, situated on the eastern shore, is the most southerly Munro in Scotland.

8

The park includes the ruins of Inchmahome Priory on the Lake of Menteith, which once hosted Mary, Queen of Scots.

9

The Trossachs area was popularized by Sir Walter Scott's poem 'The Lady of the Lake', boosting early tourism in the region.

10

The park is home to a population of wallabies on the island of Inchconnachan, introduced by Lady Colquhoun in the 1940s.

Overview

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park spans 720 square miles of mountainous terrain, including 22 large islands and over 50 smaller ones. Established in 2002, it was Scotland's first national park, containing 21 Munros and 20 Corbetts. The park features the Great Trossachs Forest, a vast woodland restoration project aimed at connecting ancient forest fragments. It is home to diverse wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, ospreys, and feral goats. The West Highland Way, a 96-mile long-distance hiking trail, traverses the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. Water-based activities are concentrated on Loch Lomond, the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain by surface area. The park encompasses the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, which includes the popular Pucks Glen and Ben A'an summit trails. Managed by a dedicated National Park Authority, the area implements strict byelaws regarding overnight camping in designated management zones.

Photo spot

The summit of Ben A'an for a panoramic view of Loch Katrine and the Trossachs hills.

Insider tips

Download offline maps before arrival, as mobile signal is inconsistent in the glen areas.

Check the 'Camping Management Zones' map if you intend to camp between March and September to ensure compliance with permit requirements.

Pack waterproof gear regardless of the forecast, as mountain weather changes rapidly.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to hike high-altitude peaks in casual footwear; do not park on grass verges which are often private or restricted.

Good to know

Camping management byelaws are strictly enforced from March to September; visitor centers may have reduced staffing during winter months.

Etiquette

Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code: keep dogs under control near livestock, bag and take away all litter, and avoid lighting fires in dry conditions.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-3 days
Best time to visit
May and September for balanced daylight, milder temperatures, and fewer midges compared to mid-summer.
Address
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Balloch, Alexandria G83 8QX, United Kingdom
56.010, -4.584
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areasLimited to wooded glens and visitor hubs like Balmaha or Rowardennan.
Outdoor activitiesHiking, open-water swimming, kayaking, and cycling.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-3 days to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is May and September for balanced daylight, milder temperatures, and fewer midges compared to mid-summer..

The summit of Ben A'an for a panoramic view of Loch Katrine and the Trossachs hills.

Close by you'll find SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium, Sweeney's Cruise Co Loch Lomond, Balloch Castle Country Park.