Walking along the Crinan Canal

Walking the dog along the Crinan Canal

The Crinan Canal passes through ideal walking country. Suggested walks listed below.

However, the whole of the Crinan Canal is an enjoyable walk in its own right. A continuous footpath runs from the sea Lock at Ardrishaig through to the sea lock at Crinan itself - a panoramic nine mile route.

  • Forest Enterprise Walk: A relaxing walk amongst beautiful mature woodland, starting from the main road above Lock 9.
  • Woodland Trust Walk: A delightful walk offering superb views of the Argyll coast, the Sound of Jura and the islands. Starting at the access point on the roadside just a few yards back from Crinan Bridge, the route takes you through oak and hazel woodland to Lock 14. This woodland is a remnant of a far larger native forest which once sprawled across the rugged hillsides.
  • Achnabrek Cup and Ring Markings: Follow the footpath beginning near Lock 5 steeply uphill to the markings - a walk of 15 minutes or so. When you reach the markings at the top of the hill, you will undoubtedly be struck both by the location of the site and the skill and imagination of the people who carved the patterns. What they represent is still a mystery.
  • Cairnbaan Cup and Ring Markings: The Cairnbaan Cup and Ring markings are a five minute walk from the Cairnbaan Hotel. An information board provides further details about the markings.

Walking routes

Towpath Stoppages

There are no stoppages reported at this time.