The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Loch Lochy

Loch Lochy offers a fantastic selection for families, with over 50 hiking routes available. Among these, 23 are rated as easy and 24 as moderate, ensuring there's something suitable for various ages and abilities.

The region boasts diverse terrain perfect for families. You'll find accessible canal towpaths, gentle forest paths, and some more rugged trails with moderate ascents. Many routes offer stunning views across the loch and surrounding Highlands, with some even providing glimpses of distant peaks like Ben Nevis.

Yes, there are several enjoyable circular walks. For a gentle option, consider the Laggan Locks – Eagle Barge Inn loop from Parking for Le Boat. This easy 6.5 km route features minimal elevation gain and takes you past the fascinating Laggan Locks and the unique Eagle Barge Inn.

Many trails around Loch Lochy are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. The Caledonian Canal towpaths, which form part of many routes, are generally welcoming to well-behaved dogs.

You'll encounter a wealth of natural beauty and historical points of interest. The Chia-Aig Waterfalls – View of Loch Arkaig loop, for instance, leads you to the attractive Chia-Aig Waterfalls. Many routes also feature the historic Caledonian Canal and offer spectacular views of Loch Lochy itself. Don't miss the Laggan Locks, a fascinating part of the canal system.

Yes, a notable spot is the Eagle Barge Inn, a unique floating cafe and restaurant located near Laggan Locks. It's a great place to refuel after a walk, and it's featured on routes like the Laggan Locks – Eagle Barge Inn loop.

Spring and summer (May to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for family hiking, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. The autumn months bring beautiful foliage. While winter hiking is possible, be prepared for colder conditions and shorter days.

The relatively flat and well-maintained towpaths of the Caledonian Canal are often suitable for prams and strollers. Routes that primarily follow these sections, such as parts of the Great Glen Way, would be your best bet for a smooth experience with young children in prams.

Many popular trailheads, especially those along the Caledonian Canal or near attractions like Laggan Locks, offer designated parking areas. For example, the easy Laggan Locks – Eagle Barge Inn loop starts from a parking area for Le Boat, making access convenient.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning loch views, the tranquility of the forest paths, and the accessibility of routes along the Caledonian Canal. The blend of natural beauty and historical interest makes it a memorable experience for families.

Absolutely. For families seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Path Along Loch Laggan – Kilfinnan Burn loop from Glengarry Lodges is a moderate 11.9 km route with some elevation gain, offering varied scenery. Another good option is the Gairlochy Swing Bridge – View of Loch Lochy loop from Gairlochy, which covers nearly 14 km with moderate ascents.