Best walks from Alexandria

Alexandria Station to Dumbarton Central Station

amazing scenery. A flat, fully paved/tarmac cycle and foot path following the River Leven almost the whole way, with only gentle inclines. Open fields, woodland and wetland alongside the river make for easy and scenic walking. Follows the NCN7 cycle path; shared use with cyclists and runners. Links on to Old Kilpatrick / Bowling Harbour and, from Balloch, to Loch Lomond National Park. Wetland alongside the river is rich in birdlife and wildlife.

Easy: 6km, moderate ascents.

The route crosses a cow field north of the A82 (the cattle generally keep well away from the path); a kissing gate or mini cattle grid is at the field exit. Signs of occasional tidal or heavy-rain flooding near the main road and railway bridges. A slightly tricky road crossing and some steps at the Alexandria end.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Alexandria Station to Kilpatrick Station

Tough: steep ascents. 14km.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Arrochar and Tarbet Station to Alexandria Station

Tough: 29km. Moderate ascents.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Helensburgh Central Station to Alexandria Station

fabulous views and moorland birds. A moorland and forest route following the Three Lochs Way, with a tarmac riverside multi-use path at the Alexandria end, then a quiet lane climbing uphill, rubbly path with tree roots, a steep zigzag climb into forest and a cinder/gravel path over boggy high ground. The descent down Red Glen is fairly steep with occasionally skiddy gravel and a tricky stream crossing. Follows the Three Lochs Way; the John Muir Way splits off near the high point. Views over Loch Lomond, Ben Lomond and the Firth of Clyde. Last refreshments at Balloch before the climb.

14km.

A section roughly 7-8km from the Alexandria end was rendered impassable by storm tree-fall. Steep, skiddy gravel descent down Red Glen and a tricky stepping-stone stream crossing. The final stretch is a mile or more along the busy A814.

Lunch: Busy Balloch is the last opportunity for refreshments before the climb.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route