The best walks and hikes around Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve

There are over 200 hiking routes to explore throughout the Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve. These range from easy riverside strolls to more challenging hikes through the steep-sided gorges, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

Yes, the area is great for families. Many of the trails are relatively flat, especially those along the riverbanks. For a shorter, accessible walk, consider the Chatelherault Hunting Lodge loop from Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve. It's a pleasant 3.5 km walk through historic parkland.

The most famous waterfalls are within the Falls of Clyde section of the reserve, managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. A great way to see them is on the Falls of Clyde (Waterfalls) – Boardwalk by the River loop from New Lanark, which takes you past a series of cascades, including the spectacular Corra Linn.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the Clyde Valley Woodlands. To protect the sensitive wildlife and for the consideration of other visitors, it's best to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with ground-nesting birds or near livestock.

The woodlands are beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly special. From April to May, the woodland floors are often carpeted with bluebells and wild garlic. Autumn is also a wonderful time to visit for the vibrant foliage colours.

Yes, parking is available at the main access points for the different woodlands. Popular sites like Chatelherault Country Park, the Falls of Clyde Visitor Centre, and Cartland Craigs have dedicated car parks. It's a good idea to arrive early on sunny weekends as they can fill up.

The reserve's proximity to urban areas makes it fairly accessible. Train services run to nearby towns like Lanark and Hamilton, from which you can often walk or take a short bus or taxi ride to the trailheads. It's recommended to check local bus and train schedules for the most up-to-date information.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the dramatic scenery of the river gorges, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained paths. The combination of stunning natural beauty, like the waterfalls, and rich history makes it a popular choice.

The entire reserve is a haven for wildlife. For birdwatching, the trails around the Falls of Clyde are excellent for spotting peregrine falcons and dippers. Quieter areas like Mauldslie Woods offer a good chance of seeing kingfishers and otters along the river. Early morning is the best time for sightings.

Most routes follow well-defined paths. However, the trails that descend into the gorges can be steep and uneven in places, with steps and rocky sections. The riverside paths are generally flatter and easier. It's always wise to wear sturdy footwear with good grip.

Many of the ancient woodlands in the reserve have spectacular wildflower displays in spring. Cleghorn Glen and the woodlands around the Falls of Clyde are particularly well-known for their dense carpets of bluebells and the scent of wild garlic. Any walk through these areas in late April or May should be rewarding.