4.3
(340)
4,300
hikers
31
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Crathes, Drumoak And Durris traverse a varied landscape featuring gentle plains along the River Dee, elevated hills, and extensive forests. The region is characterized by natural features such as Durris Forest, managed by Forestry Commission Scotland, and the broadening River Dee. Hikers can find routes offering views over Deeside and towards the Cairngorm National Park, with hills like Brimmond Hill providing panoramic vistas.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.0
(4)
6
hikers
6.80km
01:52
110m
110m
Hike the easy 4.2-mile Drum Castle and Drumhill Wood loop through ancient woodlands and open farmland with views over Deeside.
4.8
(4)
38
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(3)
22
hikers
6.25km
01:43
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
20
hikers
3.90km
01:03
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
4.14km
01:06
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Crathes Castle was built in the 16th century by Alexander Burnett. Today it is managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Both the castle and gardens can be visited for a fee, while the wider estate and its walking trails can be enjoyed for free. Check opening times and entry fees here: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/crathes-castle
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For running the woodland trails offer some beautiful scenery, and a large loop around the estate. The boardwalk when busy can be harder to pass as it is very narrow.
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On a clear day you can see across Banchory and to Scotly Hill with its landmark tower. (Another great walk in the area)
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A nice spot for a break. Look out for the fish ladder, which supports aquatic wildlife get around the sluice gate.
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The viewpoint along this trail offers a vast view across Deeside, and notable small hills including Clachnaben and Kerloch can be seen. This is just a short walk from the car park, and the Drunhill trail takes about 25 minutes at a good pace.
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National Trust Castle and looks rather impressive. The grounds and woodland trails are free to access, though there is a charge at the car park.
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The raised walkways take you over the boggy sections of the trail, and some more wildlife can be spotted here.
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There are over 20 easy hiking trails in the Crathes, Drumoak And Durris area. These routes are designed to be accessible, offering a range of distances and gentle elevations suitable for a relaxed outdoor experience.
The easy trails in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, scenic views, and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands and riverside walks.
Easy hikes in Crathes, Drumoak And Durris typically feature a mix of gentle plains along the River Dee, well-trodden paths through forests like Durris Forest, and some routes with minimal, gradual ascents to offer views. You'll find mostly even surfaces, suitable for a comfortable walk.
Yes, many of the easy trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Drum Castle and Drumhill Wood loop and the View of Crathes Castle – View of Scolty Hill loop from Crathes Castle are popular circular options.
Absolutely. The easy trails are generally well-suited for families. Many routes, such as those around Crathes Castle, offer gentle paths and interesting sights. The Drum Castle – Drum Castle, Garden and Estate loop from Drumoak is another excellent family-friendly option, exploring historic grounds.
Many trails in the Crathes, Drumoak And Durris area are dog-friendly, especially those through forests and along the River Dee. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
You can explore a variety of natural features and landmarks. Easy routes might take you past the scenic River Dee, through parts of Durris Forest, or offer views towards the Cairngorm National Park. Highlights include the historic Scolty Tower and ancient sites like the Cullerlie Stone Circle.
While many easy trails focus on gentle landscapes, some offer rewarding views. You might catch glimpses of Deeside or even the distant Cairngorms. For more expansive panoramas, consider routes that offer views of landmarks like Brimmond Hill Summit or Cairn Mon Earn Summit, which are accessible via slightly more elevated paths.
Parking is generally available at popular starting points for many easy hikes, such as near Crathes Castle, Drum Castle, and various access points to Durris Forest or the Deeside Way. Specific parking information is often detailed on individual route pages.
Public transport options, primarily local bus services, connect some of the towns and villages in the Crathes, Drumoak And Durris area. These can provide access to various trailheads, particularly those along the Deeside Way or near major attractions like Crathes Castle. Checking local bus schedules is advisable for planning.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Crathes Castle estate has facilities, and the Milton Craft Village on the banks of the Dee offers eateries. Additionally, the villages of Crathes, Drumoak, and Durris have local cafes and pubs where you can refuel after your hike.
The spring and summer months (April to September) are ideal for easy hiking, offering pleasant weather and lush scenery. Autumn brings beautiful fall colours, especially in the forests. Winter walks can be charming, but paths may be muddy or icy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Yes, the region is known for its water features. Many easy trails follow the scenic River Dee, offering opportunities for riverside walks and even salmon watching at the Falls of Feugh during spawning season. The Coy Reservoir loop from Crathes is another easy route that takes you around a tranquil body of water.


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