Glentrool Water of Trool and Spout Head Trail

Start in the public Forestry and Land Scotland car park at Glentrool Visitor Centre, beside Stroan Bridge. Take the walking approach towards the café and follow the yellow Water of Trool waymarkers into the woodland. The outward leg uses the northern woodland paths and forest tracks, rising gradually through birch, oak and conifers towards Spout Head waterfall.

Continue on the marked trail to the road crossing above Caldons, then follow the parking approach down to the bridge over the Water of Trool. The return follows the Southern Upland Way west through the oakwoods on the river's southern side. Pass the site of the Martyrs' Tomb, which commemorates Covenanters killed in 1665, and continue through the woods above the river. Cross the footbridge near Trool Foot, then follow the Water of Minnoch upstream to the visitor car park. There are several places to pause for river views without leaving the path.

Allow about three hours for the full seven kilometre circuit, including stops. The gravel paths are well established, but have long slopes, some short steep sections and uneven patches. Sturdy footwear is sensible. Take care at the two local road crossings, use the bridges and keep clear of the riverbanks in high water. Some bridges are narrow, so allow others to pass. Follow the yellow walking markers at junctions and keep off the mountain bike trails. In wet weather the woodland and bridge surfaces can be slippery.

Current published parking charges are £2 for up to three hours or £4 all day; choose enough time for your stops. Blue Badge holders park free. The café's published hours are 10.30am to 4.30pm, with toilets available during café opening. Bring drinking water and check current opening and forestry signs. The complete Water of Trool circuit, parking approach and bridges were checked against the landowner's trail map and current visitor information on 3 October 2026. This walk uses the lower glen trails and does not include the full Loch Trool circuit.