Loch Ard loop via Uamh Mhor

A medium medium-sized loop from Aberfoyle and one that mixes it up a good bit. There is a very short section on the small country road before this route becomes well maintained dirt roads. For most of the route it stays that was though there is a couple of short trail sections, but these too are well well-formed.

The first highlight is Lochan Spling which is set amongst the trees and includes come local art work such as the fish shown in the main picture. On a still and sunny morning a camera is a must. From the lochan you have a short climb and loop before hitting the first trail section that leads to the forest car park. The car park can be used as an alternative starting point for this route.

After the car park you are starting to climb steadily before heading off on the steep trail path on the right and up Uamh Mhor. Although this is steep the trail does have steps to help you on your way and even a bench at the top to rest. You can see the Wallace monument in Stirling from this vantage point and also pick out at least one of our tougher routes on the hills to the north.

From the top a short downhill on the trail takes you back onto the larger paths and a run through the trees all the way to Loch Ard where numerous picture opportunities come up. The path then heads back up hill and soon you are heading back to Aberfoyle.

There are several place where you pass the Victorian viaducts on the way. These used to supply water from Loch Katrine to Glasgow and are still very impressive today. At around you have the main climb of the route but it is not too bad and if you take a stop then look back towards the old Victorian pumping station. Once at the top you have a mostly downhill or so all the way back to Aberfoyle.