The best walks and hikes around Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve
4.5
(160)
1,155
hikers
36
hikes
Hikes around Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve explore a protected area of ancient Atlantic oakwood on the shores of Loch Creran. The terrain is characterized by well-surfaced but sometimes steep woodland paths, with mosses and lichens covering the trees. The wider area includes routes that ascend into the surrounding hills, offering views over the sea loch and nearby landscape.
Best hiking trails around Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve
- The most popular hiking route is Hiking loop from Invercreran, a…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.6
(13)
36
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
1.10km
00:23
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(13)
237
hikers
13.6km
05:24
1,040m
1,040m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
8
hikers
12.9km
03:22
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
10.6km
02:55
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Absolutely spectacular restaurant. Amazing views. Bike racks are by the seating.
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The history of the Fairy Bridge of Glen Creran is somewhat unclear. It is believed to be a little over 500 years old. Although no exact date is known, it is assumed that the bridge was built around 1500. Somehow you get the impression that the hobbits from the film "Lord of the Rings" are about to come around the corner. A very fascinating and somewhat magical place. What was the reason back then for building such an elaborate little bridge at this point when a simple wooden bridge would have done just as well? We will probably never know.
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A pretty unpronounced peak on the ridge line up towards the larger Beinn Sgulaird. The summit itself is wide and dome-shaped, and offers great views of Beinn Sgulaird and the surrounding glens and peaks. The trail can be somewhat faint, but interesting and varied terrain.
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A wild and remote Munro, sitting 937 metres high above Glen Creran and Glen Etive. It's often ascended via the south Ridge, a rough and almost alpine style mountain trail, which presents some great, techy, trail-running terrain.
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Loch Baile Mhic Chailein is a small freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, nestled amidst the steep mountains surrounding Glen Creran.
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A somewhat mellow and unpronounced peak on the ridge leading up to the Munro Summit of Beinn Sgulaird. This point can offer some great views over the nearby Loch Creran.
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Don't forget your coconut shells, this is the Castle Aaaargh 🤣
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Glasdrum Wood but must be kept under close control or on a lead, especially during the spring and early summer to protect ground-nesting birds and other wildlife. Please be considerate of other visitors and the sensitive nature of the reserve.
Are there any family-friendly walks in the area?
Absolutely. The Invercreran Woods loop is a great option for families. It's a relatively flat and easy walk of about 4.2 km through the beautiful woodland, perfect for little legs.
Where can I find a good circular walk?
The main trail within the reserve itself is a well-surfaced 1-kilometer circular path that takes you through the heart of the ancient oakwood. For a longer coastal loop, the View of Castle Stalker – Castle Stalker loop from Barcaldine offers a moderate 13.2 km route with fantastic scenery.
Is there parking available at Glasdrum Wood?
Yes, there is a car park at the entrance to the Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve on the A828. It also serves as a picnic area. Be aware that space can be limited during peak times.
How do I get to Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve?
The reserve is located directly off the A828 road between Appin and Creagan. If traveling by car, you can navigate to the main car park. Public transport options are limited in this rural area, so driving is the most practical way to visit.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
Glasdrum Wood is a haven for wildlife. It's one of Scotland's best sites for butterflies, including the rare chequered skipper and pearl-bordered fritillary. You might also spot red and roe deer, pine martens, and various woodland birds. The trees are covered in a rich variety of mosses and lichens, characteristic of a Celtic rainforest.
How difficult are the hiking trails?
The trails vary in difficulty. The main path within the reserve is well-surfaced but can be steep in sections, making it an easy to moderate walk. For a serious challenge, the Beinn Sgulaird from Loch Creran route is a difficult 13.6 km hike that ascends a Munro, demanding a high level of fitness and experience.
When is the best time of year to visit?
Spring is a magical time to visit, as the woodland floor is carpeted with wildflowers like bluebells and primroses. Summer is the best season for spotting the reserve's diverse butterfly population. Autumn offers beautiful colours, while winter provides a stark, quiet beauty, though trails can be slippery.
Where are the best viewpoints for Loch Creran?
Several trails in the area offer stunning views. The main reserve trail has strategically placed benches with vistas over the loch. For more expansive, elevated views, you'll need to tackle one of the hill walks in the surrounding area, which look down upon the fjord-like sea loch.
Are there any pubs or restaurants nearby for after a hike?
Yes, the area around Loch Creran has several options. You can find welcoming pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages of Appin and Port Appin, offering a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal after exploring the woods.
What is the historical significance of the wood?
Glasdrum Wood is a remnant of ancient Atlantic oakwood. Historically, the wood was used for iron smelting, and you can still find a detour on the main trail to a former charcoal platform. The oak bark was also used for tanning leather, connecting the natural landscape to the region's industrial past.
How many hiking trails are there around Glasdrum Wood?
There are over 35 hiking routes to explore in and around the Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve. These range from short, easy strolls within the woodland to challenging, full-day mountain ascents in the surrounding hills.
Most popular routes around Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve
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