The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Ariundle Oakwood National Nature Reserve

There are 11 family-friendly hiking trails available in Ariundle Oakwood National Nature Reserve. These routes range from easy strolls perfect for young children to moderate walks suitable for more active families.

Ariundle Oakwood is renowned for its ancient Atlantic oakwood, often called 'Scotland's rainforest,' due to its lush, damp climate. You'll encounter a magical landscape covered in mosses, lichens, and liverworts, with the scenic Strontian River flowing through the reserve. Many trails feature sheltered paths and wooden boardwalks, making them enjoyable for all ages.

Yes, for families with very young children or those looking for a gentle stroll, the Wooden Boardwalk – Beautiful Bridge loop is an excellent choice. This easy route is just over 4.5 km and can be completed in about an hour and 15 minutes, offering a pleasant experience through the oakwood.

Ariundle Oakwood is a haven for biodiversity. Keep an eye out for rare butterflies like the chequered skipper and pearl-bordered fritillary, and the northern emerald dragonfly. The reserve is also home to various birds, including redstarts and wood warblers, and if you're lucky, you might spot elusive mammals like pine martens or otters near the river.

Absolutely. Many of the trails are circular, providing a varied experience. For a slightly longer but still family-friendly option, consider the Beautiful Bridge – Wooden Boardwalk loop, which is a moderate 10.5 km route that takes around 3 hours to complete, exploring different parts of the woodland.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique, ancient woodland atmosphere, the tranquility of the trails, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in a truly special natural environment. The well-maintained paths and boardwalks are also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect for families.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Ariundle Oakwood National Nature Reserve. However, it's important to keep them under control, especially due to the presence of diverse wildlife and to respect other visitors. Please ensure you follow any local signage regarding dog policies.

Yes, the woodland holds remnants of its past. You might come across platforms where charcoal burners once worked, old pony tracks, or even potato lazy beds, which offer a glimpse into the area's historical community. These elements add an interesting layer to your family's exploration.

The Views from the High Road – Descent Through Phemies Wood loop is a great moderate option. This 8.2 km route takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, offering lovely views from higher ground before descending through the charming Phemies Wood, providing a diverse hiking experience for families.

Ariundle Oakwood is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly enchanting for family hikes. In spring, the woodland bursts with new life and vibrant greens, while autumn offers a spectacular display of golden and russet hues. The sheltered nature of the oakwood also makes it a good option on wetter days.

Many of the trails in Ariundle Oakwood follow or offer views of the Strontian River. The two marked trails within the reserve can be combined to form a 5-kilometer circular walk, with one path specifically following the River Strontian, providing a calming natural soundtrack to your family's adventure.

For families looking for a longer, moderate adventure, the Strontian Community Woodland – Strontian Hotel loop is a good choice. This route is approximately 8.7 km and takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes, offering a pleasant walk through the community woodland and towards the village.