Photo Credit (Mike Bell/ BEPTA)
Whether you’re seeking a gentle woodland stroll or a full-day mountain adventure, Blairgowrie and its surrounding glens offer some of Scotland’s most rewarding walking experiences. With waymarked trails, dramatic scenery, and paths steeped in history, there’s something here for every pace and passion.
đź‘Ł Family-Friendly Walks
- Blairgowrie Path Network – Five circular routes from 2 to 8 miles, including riverside paths, woodland trails, and gentle climbs like the Knockie Walk and Bluebell Wood.
- Den of Alyth – A magical woodland walk with red sandstone cliffs, picnic spots, and a gentle riverside path.
- WalkAlyth Routes – Short and medium walks from Alyth’s Market Square, including Kirklandbank, Little Bamff, and St Ninians.
- Dunkeld Riverside & Cathedral Walks – Easy paths along the River Tay with views of Dunkeld Cathedral and the famous Birnam Oak.
- Pitlochry’s Black Spout & Edradour Trail – A gentle woodland walk to a waterfall and Scotland’s smallest distillery.
🏞️ Scenic & Moderate Routes
- River Ericht Path – A 5½-hour circular walk through farmland, old mills, and strawberry fields. A local favourite!
- Glenlochsie Lodge Walk (Glenshee) – A 3½-hour forest and riverside walk with mountain views and a ruined hunting lodge.
- Hill of Alyth – A short but rewarding climb with panoramic views across Strathmore.
- Fiddler’s Path (Dunkeld) – A 5½-mile circular route past Dunkeld Cathedral, Jubilee Bridge, and Neil Gow’s Oak.
🧗‍♂️ Challenging Adventures
- The Cateran Trail (Full Route) – A 64-mile circular trail through Blairgowrie, Strathardle, Glenshee, Alyth, and Glenisla. Walk it in stages or tackle the full loop over 4–5 days.
- Glenshee Munros – Blairgowrie is a gateway to 12 Munros including Carn Aosda, Glas Maol, and The Cairnwell.
- Ben Vrackie (Pitlochry) – A steep but rewarding climb with panoramic views across Perthshire.
🏛️ The Cateran Ecomuseum: A Museum Without Walls
The Cateran Ecomuseum is a community-led initiative that turns the landscape itself into a museum. With over 30 walking and cycling routes, it reveals the hidden history of Cateran Country — from Pictish stones and medieval monasteries to rewilding estates and ancient drove roads.
- Spin Along the Ericht – A riverside walk through Blairgowrie’s industrial past.
- Hill of Alyth & Bamff Wildland – A gentle walk through rewilded landscapes and geological wonders.
- Alyth Auld Town – Discover the town’s rich heritage, from medieval streets to Victorian mills.
- History Tour of the Kirkton of Glenisla – A cultural walk through one of the area’s oldest settlements.
🍂 Seasonal Tips for Walkers
- Spring: Bluebell carpets in Ardblair Wood and Kinclaven are breathtaking. Look out for nesting birds and wildflowers.
- Summer: Early morning or twilight walks offer cooler temperatures and golden light. Perfect for riverside strolls and hilltop views.
- Autumn: The forests around Dunkeld and Alyth glow with colour. Bring layers and enjoy crisp air and crunchy leaves.
- Winter: Glenshee offers snow-dusted trails and dramatic skies. Stick to lower paths unless well-equipped for icy conditions.
