Carron Valley
COVID-19 update
Some FLS visitor centres are offering a reduced service, with walking and mountain bike trails remaining open, as are most toilets and car parks. Please check below for local updates on any closures.
We want to ensure your visit is an enjoyable and safe one.
Make sure you follow the Scottish Government’s FACTS advice – helping to protect yourself, your family and your local community, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code helping to keep Scotland beautiful.
Latest forest information
- There is currently no through route from the Carron Valley car park to Todholes car park. The Loch Shore road is closed from Burnhouse Bridge to Haugh Hill Quarry for road upgrades.
- Ongoing felling operations within the forest may cause some localised closures or diversions. Please follow all on-site signage and instructions, and park respectfully to allow access for staff and foresters to the area. Meikle Bin is still accessible from Todholes.
- Map of Closures (PDF 2.7MB)
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
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
Car parking information
The charges to park at Carron Valley are:
Payment options: Coin only
- £1 for up to 1 hour
- £2 for up to 3 hours
- £3 for all day
- £12 for minibus or coach all day
Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates. Nearby car parks with free parking can be found in our local forest list without the £ symbol.
Annual parking pass available:
- £40 car, £100 mini-bus/coach (valid for 12 months)
- Available in advance by downloading the application form and emailing to the Regional Office or take your completed form and pay at the Lodge Forest Visitor Centre.
- Please read our Annual Pass terms and conditions before applying.
- Valid at the following sites: The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre, Three Lochs Forest Drive, Ben Venue, Ben A'an, Rowardennan, Carron Valley
Blue badge holders park free. Please display your Blue Badge clearly.
Further information about parking
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?