Longer loop in Queen Elizabeth forest

Another variation of a route from Aberfoyle which creates a larger route to explore. This is an extension of the Loch Ard forest route, number 485, and adds in a different and slightly longer final loop. We have done this route several times but it always seems harder than it should be. Perhaps due to the elevation or perhaps due to the heavy rain that seems to follow us on this one.

The route starts off from the main car park in the village, crosses the old bridge and heads past the ruined church towards the forest. The first are on tarred road but that soon stops and you are on forest roads for most of the remainder of the run. There is a a fair bit of climb on this route but nothing too difficult and you are rewarded with many nice views.

At just past the mark you cross the old bridge over Duchray water and head up a zig zag of a path. From the bridge onwards you will see many parts of the old Victorian water system taking water from Loch Katrine to Glasgow. Very impressive the structures. The path is taking you towards Kinlochard, but you head off on the path taking the high route past the village. Although still in trees, they do occasionally open up to allow you to see the views. This part of the route can be a bit of a gradual uphill slog at times.

Just after you follow the path to the left and some more uphill. This part and for the next you are mainly out in the open and this is where the really heavy rain is likely to come on. OK, perhaps that's just for us.

The final is a mix of ups and downs and in amongst the trees. One nice thing about this route is that the final are mostly downhill or on the flat. The downhill sections are nearly all easy running.