The River Walk

The River Walk in Lochgoilhead is a fine example of how community-led development can transform land use and open-up access to nature. In this beautiful village, the hills and mountains provide an epic backdrop to daily life. But not everyone is able take advantage of the many local hill walks. Sometimes a pleasant stroll is all that’s needed.

Phase 1

The River Walk provides a low-level, easy access path along the banks of the River Goil. Starting in Lochgoilhead’s Community Park and Gardens, the first section was opened by Lochgoil Community Trust in November 2018. The path meanders through bluebells alongside the river, with picnic stops, places for a paddle and then onwards through a Beech wood brimming with wildlife. Red Squirrel sightings are pretty much guaranteed if you’re quiet, and the nest boxes are becoming quite the des-res for bird life. Dippers, Water Voles, Otters and Kingfishers have all been spotted from the path.

Phase 2

In 2020, thanks to grants from Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and the generosity of our supporters and Forestry and Land Scotland, the construction of a second phase of the River Walk began. This 2km section runs alongside the river, following the route of a long-abandoned, ancient track from Lochgoilhead to the foot of Hell’s Glen at the B839. The main path construction was completed in November 2021, when a cycling-friendly surface was added to the path.

Continuing from the end of the current River Walk, this section begins with a forestry access road, before narrowing down to a pleasant footpath, passing through managed forestry and native Atlantic Oak woodlands, finally opening to spectacular views across farmland and the River Goil glen. Benches provide places to rest and to take in the scenery. Informal nature trails extend through the woodlands, enabling more adventurous walkers to explore along the banks of the River Goil.