Skip to main content

There is a very high risk of wildfire in the south and west of Scotland from 24 to 25 April. Please plan ahead and check online before visiting.

Craik Forest

Where we are

Craik Forest Notice

  • Blue and red trail and lower car park remain closed due to fallen trees after storm Isha and Jocelyn. We will update the webpage as soon as the trees have been cleared. 
  • White trail open as an easy grade.
  • Upper car park open.

About

A stunning woodland landscape with tranquil trails

Craik Forest is great for when you want to ‘get away from it all’. Nestling in the heart of the Southern Uplands, this large, remote woodland is home to red squirrels and many woodland birds.

Some of the trees here are over 100 years old, and the size and isolation of the forest makes it a great place for wildlife.

Walking trails

Craik Forest route card (PDF)

Walking

Burnside Trail

A trail notice is in effect

Open - easy graded only. There is a fallen tree across path to navigate around.

A short stroll along the peaceful Borthwick Water, through graceful larch. Perfect for a picnic.

Wide and firm track throughout, with occasional loose gravel. Gentle rises and one section of boardwalk.

Easy (all abilities) trail grade icon
¼ miles / 0.4 km

Allow
¼ hours

More information

Find out about the salmon that spawn in the burn, and the bats, owls and squirrels that live in the trees.

Walking

Spruce Trail (closed)

A trail notice is in effect

24 January 2024: Trail closed due to fallen trees after storm Isha and Jocelyn. We will reopen access once it is safe to do so.

A wee daunder along the burn and through mature, moss-clad Norway spruce trees, a favourite habitat of the red squirrel.

Uneven gravel and earth paths. Some exposed tree roots and potentially muddy sections. Two short steep slopes and a pair of bridges.

Moderate trail grade icon
½ miles / 0.8 km

Allow
½ hours

Walking

Aithouse Burn Trail (closed)

A trail notice is in effect

24 January 2024: Trail closed due to fallen trees after storm Isha and Jocelyn. We will reopen access once it is safe to do so.

Walk through some of Craik’s oldest trees and along the lovely Aithouse Burn. Great views over the forest.

Uneven grass and earth paths with some muddy sections. Some steep slopes. Includes a bridge and section of boardwalk.

Moderate trail grade icon
1 ¾ miles / 2.8 km

Allow
1 hour

More information

There's opportunities to spot red squirrels and woodland birds, so bring your binoculars.

Facilities and access

Walking
Walking
Parking icon
Parking
All ability trails
All ability trails
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Picnic area
Picnic area

Find a bite to eat nearby

You’ll find public toilets and places to eat in Hawick.

Car parking information

There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.

More about parking

Getting here

From Hawick, follow the A7 towards Carlisle. At Martins Bridge turn onto the B711, signposted for Roberton. After about 3 ¼ miles, just beyond the school in Roberton, turn left and follow the unclassified single track road for about 6 ½ miles to the car park. Craik Forest is well signposted.

Using SatNav?

TD9 7PS is the nearest postcode.

Get directions

Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Phone
0300 067 6900 (option 1)
More contact information

Nearby forests

Close up of pine cones

An Iron Age landscape with views over the River Esk

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Parking icon
Parking
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Ancient monument
Ancient monument
Distance from 'Craik Forest': 8.89 miles
Forest with substantial green undergrowth with tall trees and light streaming through branches.

Find space to breathe at Craigieburn

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Parking icon
Parking
Picnic area
Picnic area
Distance from 'Craik Forest': 8.95 miles
View across conifer forest towards distant hills

A woodland full of wildlife, with a picturesque burn

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Mountain biking
Mountain biking
Parking icon
Parking
Horse riding
Horse riding
Picnic area
Picnic area
Icon showing a campervan on green background
Stay the Night
Distance from 'Craik Forest': 9.15 miles