Image shared for Forest of Ae Water of Ae Riverside Trail
Canal / Riverside Circular

Forest of Ae Water of Ae Riverside Trail

Dumfries and Galloway

Distance
3.1 mi
Est. time
1h 30m
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Begin in the main Forest of Ae car park just beyond Ae village, beside the bike shop and café area. Follow the yellow Water of Ae walking markers north along the forest road towards Ae Naze. Vehicles use this first section, so keep to the side and take care at the cattle grids.

At the riverside trail junction, cross the wide bridge over the Water of Ae and follow the yellow-marked woodland path upstream. The trail links sheltered forest paths with short stretches of track. At the northern riverside loop, turn back beside the water and follow the marked return through the spruce woods, using the lower riverside path to reach the bridge again. Cross back and retrace the road approach to the main car park.

Allow about one and a half hours, with extra time for a picnic or watching the river. Surfaces are mainly firm gravel, with loose stones and a couple of short steep ramps. Dippers and herons are possible along the water, although sightings vary. Keep children close to the bank, keep dogs under control and watch for cyclists where trails meet. Choose another day if flooding affects the riverside path.

Parking is currently £3 for up to three hours or £4 for the day, with free parking for Blue Badge holders. Toilets and picnic facilities are provided; use the main car park for the nearby café when open. Saturday morning parkrun can make the start busy around 9am. Follow any forestry signs on arrival. This is the full yellow riverside circuit, checked against the current FLS map and visitor notices on 3 October 2026.

Walk details

Walk type
Circular
Category
Canal / Riverside
Distance
3.1 mi (4.9 km)
Est. time
1h 30m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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