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A Guide to Scotland’s 2 Must-Visit National Parks

| Last Updated: July 2025

On weekends, my family and I would often head to the park, especially when on summer hols. We’d be hiking as soon as the sun rises, having picnics in the forest, surfing the waters, and sailing towards the sunset.

I’ve got loads of fond memories of Scottish national parks, whether it be hiking with friends or having picnics with my family. And as a self-proclaimed park specialist (yes, I carry an ID… just kidding), I’ve got more than a few things to say about all of them. 

So if you’re curious to know about why I love our national parks and why they’ve earned a spot in my heart, then stick around. 

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

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A breathtaking blend of mountainous landscapes, far-reaching lochs, and scenic trails, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is spot-on for a day packed with walking, cycling, and outdoor adventure, whether you’re splashing about or sticking to dry land.

And I mean it. There are over 1,865 sq km (720 sq miles) of hiking trails, cycling routes, fishing spots, and mountains with cracking panoramic views. Don’t fret, there’s something for everyone, from family-friendly treks to thrill-seekers’ climbs.

The best part? It’s an accessible gem, just a short hop from the city, making it one of the best nature escapes without venturing too far out. 

Things to Do in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Do water activities

With postcard-perfect views from Balmaha or Luss, Loch Lomond is an ideal spot for family-friendly water activities, whether you’re up for paddleboarding, kayaking or simply enjoying a scenic boat cruise.

Another romantic escape is The Trossachs made famous by Sir Walter Scott’s “The Lady and the Lake”, it became Scotland’s first tourist hotspot in the 1800s, known for its wooded glens, lochs, and rugged hills.

Go trekking at Conic Hill and Ben A’an

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Affectionately known as the “mountain in miniature”, is Ben A’an a small hill with dramatic character, perfect for a quick yet rewarding beginner’s hike with photogenic spots and panoramic views over Loch Katrine, Loch Acrya, and nearby Ben Benue.

Another favourite is Conic Hill, which, just like Ben A’an, takes about 2 to 3 hours round trip and also offers the classic Loch Lomond Views. 

Cycle the scenic trails

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When I’m in the mood for a workout, my go-to trail is the Glen Finglas Circular. A long loop, about 15 km (9.5 miles) long, takes about 5 to 6 hours to complete with steep climbs and descents, which makes it quite the challenge, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views.

For an easy-to-moderate trek, the Great Trossachs Path is one of my favourites. It winds through some of the park’s scenic forests and glens. On days I’m after something more relaxed, I take the Falls of Falloch Trail. It’s quick and leads you to a stunning waterfall, best admired from the viewing platform.

Go wildlife watching

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Home to ancient woodlands, lochs, and mountains the park itself is already rich in biodiversity so there’ll be no shortage of wildlife sightings. Whether it be majestic birds of prey or curious red squirrels. 

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But if you’re visiting to spot red deer, black grouse, or golden eagles, specifically, then head over to Glen Finglas or Loch Katrine. Around Balloch, you’ll find osprey, especially in the summer, as they fish near the Loch Lomond shores.

Explore nearby lochside villages 

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Luss, located on the Western shore, is arguably the most famous village by Loch Lomond because of its postcard-perfect views with darling stone cottages and cobbled paths. It’s also home to Luss Parish Church, which has been used for Christian worship for over 1500 years.

For forest walks and wildlife watching, Aberfoyle, Arrochar and Kilin are surrounded by forest trails and make a great base for hikers and climbers. While you’re there, be sure to visit the local pubs and cosy restaurants.

How To Get to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

By Car 

  • From Glasgow:  A 45-minute to 1-hour drive to Balloch, Balhama, or Drymen via the A82.
  • From Edinburgh: About 1.5 hours from the A84 or A85 to reach the loch’s northern villages. 

By Train

  • Take the Direct ScotRail which’ll get you to Balloch in just under 1 hour. Once you get to Balloch Station, it’s a short walk to the loch. Else, you can hop onto buses to explore nearby villages. 

By Bus

  • Take the Citylink and other local bus services that run north towards Balloch, Drymen, and Balmaha.

Visitor Tips: 

  • Book ahead. Rentals and tours fill up, especially during the peak season, so plan your activities early on to secure a slot. Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best parking spots.
  • Gear up for all sorts of weather conditions. Bring footwear for trails, swimming gear, and layers as the weather changes quickly.
  • Support local. Enjoy meals, drinks, and activities at the shore centre and nearby villages.

Cairngorms National Park

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If you ask me, the Cairngorms National Park was made for adventurers. Twice the size of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, it’s packed with ways to wear yourself out year-round, from skiing down the snowy mountainside or paddle boarding across Loch Morlich.

There are loads of family-friendly trails at Loch an Eilein or Uath Lochans. When the little monkeys are knackered, you can settle in for a picnic by the beach downstream and or pop by the Highland Wildlife Park. 

Cycling and mountain biking are also big here, too, with trails for all levels, from gentle glides to steep, winding paths. Keep your eyes peeled for hovering capercaillies, curious pine martens, and if you’re lucky, maybe even wildcats.

Things To Do in Cairngorms National Park

Do water activities in Loch Morlich or River Spey

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Loch Morlich is a freshwater loch with a sandy beach framed by picturesque mountains, ideal for watersports or just lazing around and soaking up the view. Because of its calm waters, it’s ideal for families and beginners.

River Spey, by contrast, flows swiftly downstream, making it a favourite for intermediate to advanced paddlers thanks to fast currents and light rapids. And if fishing’s your thing, pack your gear and permit as Spey’s one of Scotland’s legendary salmon rivers.

Cycle through the Laggan Wolftrax, Glenlivet Bike Trails, and the local paths at Alvermorie.

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You’re in for a real treat when cycling Laggan Wolftrax, especially if you want adrenaline and altitude. It’s a rocky climb with steep descents and hairpin switchbacks, perfect for fast runs downhill.

For a more remote and open landscape experience, Glenlivet is perfect. It features three trails: Blue (9 km), ideal for beginners and families; Red (22 km), great for faster rides and sweeping descents; and Pump Track, perfect for kids or a warm-up spin before hitting the main trails.

Meanwhile, Rothiemurchus Estate and Forest is ideal for scenic walks through the ancient forest along Aviemore, wild swimming, and even pony trekking. Finally, Angus is a more secluded and less-visited corner, perfect for wild camping and proper back-to-nature treks.

Ski and snowboard down Cairngorm Mountain and The Letch

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One of the UK’s highest peaks, Cairngorm Mountain is a playground for summer hikes, mountain biking, and winter skiing. No matter the season, the views are jaw-dropping—just don’t actually drop it as it’s a long way down!

How To Get There:

By Car

  • From Edinburgh:  2.5 to 3 hours via the M90 north towards Perth. Then, merge onto the A9 northbound and exit at Kingussie, Aviemore, or Carrbridge.
  • From Glasgow: About 3 hours to Aviemore from the M80 towards Stirling before joining the A9 north to Perth.
  • From Aberdeen: A 1.5 to 2-hour drive to east Cairngorms, Ballater or Braemer, through the A93 southwest through Royal Deeside.

By Train

  • Take the ScotRail that runs regularly from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness.
  • The Highland Main Line north is also an option, but note you’ll need to change in Perth if needed, depending on where you’re coming from.

By Bus

  • Take the Citylink and Stagecoach services to Aviemore and nearby towns. 

Visitor Tips: 

  • Check road conditions. In the winter, some passes are closed due to the snow, so make sure to check the weather and road conditions regularly.
  • Plan ahead. It can be a challenge to get phone signals in some areas, so pack a map and GPS. You can check out the visitor centres for maps and advice.
  • Bring layers. The weather can change on a whim, so pack for all conditions, from sunny to snowy.
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