Carron Valley
Carron Valley Forest Notice
We hope you’ve been enjoying the walking trails at your nearby forests during lockdown. As Scottish Government COVID-19 restrictions ease, we look forward to welcoming you back more fully, and are working hard to reopen our facilities as soon as safely possible.
At this location:
- The car park is open and will be free of charge.
- Some mountain bike trails are open (please see the mountain biking section below for more information). We will continue to open more trails as quickly as we can.
The Loch Shore Road will be closed until further notice for road upgrading works. During this time, there will be no access from the main car park to Meikle Bin.
A landscape rich in wildlife and history
Enjoy an easy waterside stroll or family cycle ride, a blast through the forest by mountain bike or tackle the distinctive peak of the Meikle Bin for panoramic views over central Scotland.
These woods are alive with wildlife and history – discover standing stones, old drove roads and a reconstructed Iron Age fort, spot red squirrels and crossbills in the trees and watch for ospreys and waterbirds from the lochside hide.
Guide map to walking trails at Carron Valley (PDF 6MB)
Walking trails
Loch Shore Trail
A scenic trail alongside Carron Valley Reservoir with play features, picnic spots and some wonderful views. Ideal for a family stroll or cycle ride.
Firm gravel surface throughout, with some loose and uneven sections. Several short fairly steep slopes with plenty of resting places. Includes a section of boardwalk. Parts may be slightly muddy.
Allow 1½ hours
This popular trail blends sheltered waymarked woodland paths with safe children’s play features and spectacular views over the reservoir. There are plenty of places to sit, stop for a picnic and spot wildlife along the way.
Use the Fieldfare Trust’s Carron Valley phototrail for detailed information on access along this family-friendly route.
Mountain biking trails
The Red Route (diverted)
A trail notice is in effect
The Pipe Dream climbing section of The Red Route is closed for forest operations. Please follow diversions and operation signage on site.
Singletrack heaven and packed with variety. Remember to catch your breath at the top and admire the stunning views before the great Eas Dubh (Black Waterfall) descent and sweeping Cannonball Run.
Up for an airy finish? The Runway is a fast flowing freeride descent, packed with features: berms, jumps, stone drop-offs and table-tops.
Activities
Mountain biking
Fast, fun and purpose-built for year round use – the Carron Valley mountain bike trails are guaranteed to bring you back for more. There’s 5 miles of red-grade trail here.
Guide map to mountain biking trails at Carron Valley (PDF 1.45 MB)
Fishing
Carron Valley reservoir is one of the most scenic trout fisheries in Scotland. Contact Carron Valley Fishery to buy permits for bank and boat fishing.
Meikle Bin hill walk
The distinctive peak of Meikle Bin looms above the forest. It’s a steep climb up through the woods and onto the open hill to reach the summit, but if you’re fit and prepared, well worth it for the views. For the quickest way onto the hill, park at the western end of the reservoir. Be aware that the route is not waymarked, so you need to take a map and know how to use it.
Facilities & access
The public toilets at Carron Valley have been closed until further notice due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.
Car parking charges
- £1 for up to 1 hour
- £2 for up to 3 hours
- £3 for all day
- £12 for minibus and coach all day
Season passes are also available. Contact our local office for more details.
Getting here
Carron Valley is on the south side of the B818 between Denny and Fintry. The main car park is at the east end of Carron Valley Reservoir.
There is also a small parking area at Todholes at the west end of the reservoir.
Using SatNav?
FK6 5JL is the nearest postcode for the main car park.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?