Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead
View PhotosThree Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead
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The Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead makes up the second section of the 34.2mi long-distance walking trail, The Three Lochs Way. This section has plenty in store, leading walkers past the legendary Hill House (Charles Rennie Mackintosh) and on a pleasant path through woodlands and quiet country lanes. Enjoy the scenery of Glen Fruin and a thrilling descent to top the walk off, leading down into Garelochhead.
Getting there
To get to the Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead walk from Dumbarton, take the A814 for 6.8mi and follow the roundabout to continue straight onto Cardross Rd/A814. After 0.3mi, continue straight on the roundabout to remain on Cardross Rd/A814 for another 0.8mi. Turn left onto Charlotte Street and drive for 0.4mi before making a slight left onto Victoria Road. After 0.2mi on Victoria Road, turn right onto Sinclair Street/A818, and continue 0.2mi to reach the Helensburgh Upper Station, where the walk begins.
About
When to do | Year-round access |
Backcountry Campsites | Wild camping (permit required) |
Pets allowed | Yes |
Family friendly | Older Children only |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | Moderate |
Route Type | One Way |
Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead
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Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead Trail Description
Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead invites you to complete the second section of one of Scotland’s Great Trails, known as the Three Lochs Way. The waymarked path features stunning scenery with gently undulating hills along minor roads and tracks. You can expect a few boggy sections along the way, but nothing that waterproof footwear can’t solve. If choosing to complete this walking in sections over several days, walkers can opt to stay at Rowanbrae Cottage B&B or another cozy accommodation in Garelochhead before proceeding with section three.
To begin the walk, leave Sinclair Street by turning left onto Munro Drive and heading uphill. A right turn onto Upper Colquhoun Street has you continuing uphill towards the fine masterpiece of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, known as Hill House. The trail then enters pretty woodlands, which you’ll continue through, crossing several footbridges and enjoying lovely views over the Firth of Clyde and out towards Greenock. You’ll soon pass through a gate that opens to wide-open pastures before continuing the trail through the Glen Fruin. A road soon leads uphill, granting you incredible views back over the glen as you continue, soon joining the military road. Keep your eyes peeled for the Three Lochs Way marker, which will lead you down to Garelochhead, where this section of the walk ends. If you wish to join this section with the third section (Garelochhead to Arrochar/Tarbet), continue straight on the path instead of crossing the fence and turning left to head downhill. To return to Helensburgh after completing this section, you can take a train or a bus following the walk.
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