The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Bardowie Loch
4.4
(518)
8,998
hikers
27
hikes
Hiking around Bardowie Loch offers a diverse landscape of lochs, woodlands, and gentle hills, providing varied terrain for dog friendly walks. The area features accessible lochside paths and mixed woodlands, creating a serene environment for outdoor activities. Situated just north of Glasgow, the region is characterized by its connection to Mugdock Country Park and proximity to other natural features like the Kelvin Walkway and several smaller lochs. This combination of natural elements makes it suitable for a range of hiking…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.8
(12)
146
hikers
14.3km
03:45
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
30
hikers
14.8km
03:57
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(5)
24
hikers
14.5km
03:55
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
25.3km
07:00
430m
430m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(6)
77
hikers
8.64km
02:16
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Very nice path, with alternating sections and beautiful botany.
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Above all, the path through Mugdock-Forest is worth it.
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The original Castle on this site was built in the 13th century by the Graham family. The Grahams were a family on the rise and the family were made the Earls of Montrose in 1505. The most famous Graham resident of Mugdock Castle was James Graham (1612-1650) known as The Great Montrose. He was a poet and soldier who fought for the cause of King Charles I during the Wars of The Three Kingdoms (more commonly referred to as The English Civil Wars) and was marked as one of the greatest soldiers of the time. So great was his military fame that King Louis XIV offered him the role as Marshal of France. His success ultimately ran out in 1650 with the loss of The Battle of Carbisdale in Rosshire. Montrose was betrayed by a fellow Scotsman and was ultimately Hung, Drawn and Quartered for his part in the war. His campaigns were immortalised by Sir Walter Scott in his 1819 novel A Legend of Montrose.
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Avoid the storm-felled trees. A few do carry your bike over or around
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The West Highland Way is known as Scotland's most loved trail. It walks for 96 miles (154km) from Milngavie (south) to Fort William (north). This section is near the start (if you started in Milngavie). It walks through the Mugdock Country Park on the outskirts of Glasgow, heading towards Loch Lomond.
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Great coffee in the Spider monkey coffee shop, great food in the Tea Room
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Bardowie Loch?
There are over 25 dog-friendly hiking trails around Bardowie Loch, offering a variety of distances and difficulties suitable for you and your canine companion. These routes explore the picturesque lochside paths, woodlands, and gentle hills of the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes near Bardowie Loch?
The terrain around Bardowie Loch is varied, featuring accessible lochside paths, mixed woodlands, and gentle rolling hills. You'll find a mix of well-maintained trails and more natural, unpaved sections, providing a pleasant experience for both you and your dog.
Are there any easy dog-friendly walks suitable for beginners or older dogs?
Yes, Bardowie Loch offers several easy dog-friendly walks. These routes typically feature flatter terrain and shorter distances, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog. While specific easy routes are not listed here, you can find 4 easy tours in the area on komoot.
Are there any circular dog walks around Bardowie Loch?
Many of the dog-friendly routes around Bardowie Loch are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the moderate 14.3 km Craigallian Loch – Craigallian Fire Memorial loop from Milngavie is a great option for a circular hike with your dog.
What historical landmarks or points of interest can I see on a dog-friendly hike?
You can explore several historical landmarks while hiking with your dog. The mid-16th-century Bardowie Castle is situated on the north side of the loch. Additionally, routes like the 14.8 km Mugdock Castle – Mugdock Loch loop from Milngavie will take you past the historic Mugdock Castle, offering interesting sights along the way.
Are there any longer or more challenging dog-friendly trails for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Bardowie Loch and its surroundings offer more demanding routes. You can find 10 difficult tours in the area, such as the 24.6 km Craigallian Loch – Path to Mugdock Castle loop from Milngavie, which features significant elevation changes and longer distances.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails around Bardowie Loch?
The dog-friendly trails around Bardowie Loch are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the beautiful scenery, the peaceful lochside paths, and the varied woodland trails that make for an enjoyable outing with their dogs.
Are there any routes that connect to wider trail networks like Mugdock Country Park?
Yes, Bardowie Loch is closely connected to Mugdock Country Park, which offers an extensive network of trails. Many routes in the area, such as the 14.5 km Path to Mugdock Castle – Mugdock Castle loop from Milngavie, provide access to the park's diverse paths and historical sites.
Is Bardowie Loch a good place for dog walks with scenic views?
Absolutely. Bardowie Loch is renowned for its scenic beauty, with picturesque views across the loch and towards the distant Campsie Fells. Many trails offer open vistas and charming lochside perspectives, making it a rewarding experience for you and your dog.
What is the best time of year to visit Bardowie Loch for dog-friendly hiking?
Bardowie Loch is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for dog-friendly hiking. The mild temperatures and vibrant foliage (or blooming wildflowers) enhance the natural beauty, while avoiding the potential heat of summer or the chill of winter. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any dog-friendly routes that pass by other lochs in the area?
Yes, several routes extend beyond Bardowie Loch to include other nearby bodies of water. For instance, the challenging 25.3 km Jaw Reservoir – Craigallian Loch loop from Milngavie will take you past both Jaw Reservoir and Craigallian Loch, offering diverse waterside scenery for your hike.
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