Loch Ard Forest Trails

Loch Ard Forest sits in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, part of the Trossachs National Park, around one mile west of Aberfoyle. The forest is managed by Forestry and Land Scotland and offers a network of waymarked cycling and mountain bike trails on forest roads and singletrack, with views of lochs and hills throughout. The trails are suitable for families and beginners, with longer options for those wanting a fuller day out. A series of woodland sculptures by artist Rob Mulholland are dotted along the routes, featuring foxes, ospreys, leaping fish and "Star Wars Squirrels".

The Trails

• Loch Ard Circuit (16km): The main MTB route, looping around Loch Ard on a mix of forest road and singletrack. The circuit takes in views of the loch, mixed woodland and open hillside, with some short steep sections. Starting from Milton car park or Kinlochard village.
• Lochan Spling Loop (3km): A shorter, easier loop through mixed woodland to Lochan Spling, with a rest point at the end of the lochan. Suitable for families and younger riders. Gentle climbing throughout.
• The five waymarked routes range from 3km to 16km. All trails share paths with walkers and horse riders. Ride with consideration for other users throughout.
• The forest also forms part of the wider Rob Roy Way long-distance cycling and walking route. Experienced riders can link into Achray Forest to the north for more technical riding.
• Check the Loch Ard Forest region on Trailforks for current trail status and community reports.

Getting Here

• Milton car park (main MTB access): B829, Aberfoyle, FK8 3TF. From the centre of Aberfoyle, head west along the B829 towards Kinlochard. After 1 mile turn left at the sign for Loch Ard Forest. Free parking. This is the recommended starting point for the Loch Ard Circuit.
• Aberfoyle main car park: In Aberfoyle village, with toilets and cafes nearby. Suitable for shorter routes and the Lochan Spling Loop.
• Kinlochard village: Five miles west of Aberfoyle on the B829. A starting point for the western end of the Loch Ard Circuit and longer routes.
• Bike hire is available at Aberfoyle and in Kinlochard at Go Country.
• By bus: regular buses run from Stirling to Aberfoyle. Check Traveline Scotland for timetables.

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