The Queen Elizabeth Forest Park
in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Scotland

Things to see and do in The Trossachs

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About The Park

 

The Forestry Commision first designated the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park as a Forest Park when Queen Elizabeth the second came to the throne in 1953.

It lies between the east shores of Loch Lomond and Strathyre and includes not only forests but a myriad of mountains, rivers, lochs and small settlements and villages, each of which has something to offer to the visitors who flock to this beautiful area.

The forest park appeals to all kinds of people with a variety of interests. For the outdoor enthusiast there are forest tracks, abandoned railway lines and quiet glens which can be easily accessed for walking and in most cases mountain biking. For the less adventurous who just want to relax in wonderful surroundings there are peaceful spots in the woods, by lochsides and waterfalls where you nan relax with nature.

The Forests

Probably the best place to start exploring is the David Marshall Lodge Visitor Centre on the hillside above Aberfoyle on the Duke's Pass which winds through the hills on its way to Callander. The centre is open all year and has an information centre where you can pick up leaflets about the park. There is also a cafe, an adventure playground, a forest shop and the high wire excitement of the 'Go=Ape' forest adventure with the longest zip-wire in the UK.

The forests can be divided into 3 main areas:

• Trossachs - between Aberfoyle and Callander - a wonderland of forest trails, Lochs and Lochans with some 'easy' mountains you can climb to get the best of the views. Loch Katrine and the steamer are at the heart of the Trossachs where you can park your car and get out to explore on foot, bike or steamer.
• Strathyre Forest - in the sheltered valley north of Callander with walks in the wooded hillsides and the opportunity to climb 'little' Ben Shian for fantastic views over Loch Lubnaig, Strathyre village and the hills and valleys of Balquhidder and the north.
• East Loch Lomond - explore the eastern slopes of Ben Lomond in a huge forest stretching from Aberfoyle by loch Ard and Loch Chon. Forest paths once more provide easy access on foot or mountain bike.

Each of these areas has its own special attractions - visit one of the information centres and pick up some pamphlets and guides.

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The Trossachs and things to see and do