Doach Wood

Wander in the shadow of Scotland's tallest trees

Doach Wood is dominated by some of the tallest trees in south-west Scotland, towering up to 130 feet (40 metres) above the woodland floor – that’s almost as tall as Nelson’s Column in London. The trail climbs steeply up through the cathedral of tree trunks to a viewpoint, where you can catch your breath and gaze at the dramatic rocky coast and hills.

By far the largest trees in Doach Wood are the Douglas firs. The species was discovered by the Scottish colonist Archibald Menzies on the west coast of North America in 1791, but was named after another Scot, David Douglas, who sent seed back to Britain 34 years later.

Dumfries and the Solway Guide Map (PDF 4.6MB)

Walking trails (1)

Walking

Douglas Trail

Walk beneath towering Douglas firs before climbing to a breathtaking viewpoint on Gaigrie Hill. The view of the Solway Coast is your reward.

Sections of uneven gravel and earth path with exposed tree roots. Some long steep slopes.

1 ¾ miles / 2.7 km

Allow
1½ hours

Facilities and access

Walking

Parking

Viewpoint

Everything you need nearby

You’ll find toilets and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop at the nearby towns of Castle Douglas and Dalbeattie.

Getting here

Doach Wood lies beside the B736, which links Castle Douglas with the A711. It’s about 2 miles (3km) from the village of Palnackie. Look for signposts to the car park from the B736.

Using SatNav?

DG7 1QF is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

Dumfries is the nearest railway station. There are regular buses from Dumfries to Dalbeattie, where you change to get a local bus to Palnackie. Check Traveline Scotland for details.

Get directions

Find out more

• Forests of Dumfries and the Solway

Share your experience