Conic Hill Walk From Balmaha
2.2 miles (3.5 km)This popular climb to Conic Hill gives wonderful views over Loch Lomond. The hill is situated above Balmaha and can be reached by following a good, stepped path along the West Highland Way to the summit.... The walk starts from the Balmaha car park/visitor centre and heads through the woodland of the Balmaha plantation before climbing the wooden steps and following grassy paths to Conic Hill. The views back over Loch Lomond towards the Arrochar Alps and Ben Lomond are stunning. You can descend the same way or extend your walk by continuing along the West Highland Way to the Burn of Marr and Milton of Buchanan. This would turn the route into a longer circular walk.
Pubs and More Info
The Oak Tree Inn sits in a lovely location next to Loch Lomond in Balmaha. The award winning inn serves good quality food and has a fine selection of ales. If the weather is fine you can sit outside under the eponymous oak tree. They also provide rooms if you would like to stay in the area. You can find them at postcode G63 0JQ for your sat navs.
One nice idea is to catch the ferry to the picturesque Inchcailloch Island where you can enjoy nature trails and a little beach. You could also explore miles of woodland trails around Balmaha Forest.
The epic West Highland Way also runs through Balmaha. You could pick up the long distance trail and follow it north along the loch to Rowardennan on the Balmaha to Milarrochy Bay and Rowardennan Walk. It's a popular section of the waymarked trail with a visit to the beautiful Milarrochy Bay a real highlight.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Walks page.
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West Highland Way Balmaha Forest Balmaha to Milarrochy Bay and Rowardennan
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As you ascend, you'll pass through areas of mixed woodland, including birch, rowan, and oak trees, which are particularly vibrant in spring and autumn. The open grassy slopes are interspersed with patches of heather, gorse, and bracken. In summer, wildflowers such as foxgloves and buttercups can be seen along the paths, adding colour to the landscape and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
The fauna of the area is equally engaging. Birds are a highlight, with species such as skylarks, buzzards, and kestrels commonly seen or heard overhead. During quieter times, you might spot deer grazing in the more remote areas or red squirrels darting through the trees. The hill also provides a habitat for smaller mammals, such as voles and rabbits, while Loch Lomond itself supports waterfowl like mallards, grebes, and herons, visible from the hill’s vantage points.
