Take a forest drive
Our Forest Drives are once again open for vehicle access. These facilities are a great way to get into the forest and see some stunning sights from across the country.
Though these drives are once again open to cars, they have remained open all winter for walkers and other forest users. Please drive carefully and share the road.
Visit the individual forest pages to learn more about how to pay and how to access the roads.
Raiders’ Road Forest Drive
The best of Galloway Forest Park from the comfort of your car.
This forest drive in Galloway is a great add-on to your experience. It’s an easy way to see more of the Park’s woods and wildlife without having to venture too far.
The drive is 10 miles and has various stops along the way. The Otter Pool car park is about halfway and is a popular place for locals and visitors alike. Here you will find picnic tables and beautiful views over the pools. You can also stop at Stroan Loch for a waterside stroll or start the strenuous Buzzard Trail.
The cost of this drive is £3 and is payable by card or RingGo.
Things to do near the drive
Raider’s Road Forest Drive is in the middle of Galloway Forest Park, which is perfect if you want to explore further. Here are a few close attractions to keep you busy for the entire weekend.
Clatteringshaws
Clatteringshaws Loch has lovely views over the Galloway Hills.
Red Deer Range
This is a great way to get close to Scotland’s iconic Red Deer. Opened in 1977, the range has a wildlife hide and viewing area where people can enjoy the deer and other wildlife.
Talnotry
Climb the steep hill up to Murray’s Monument to see views over the whole area or wander down to the waterfall behind the car park. You can take a longer walk on the Talnotry Trail to the drystone sheep pens at the Black Loch.
Three Lochs Forest Drive
Enjoy classic Trossachs scenery from your car.
This 7-mile Forest Drive takes you along three picturesque lochs; Lochan Reòidhte, Loch Drunkie and Loch Achray. There are three short walking trails along the drive. Achray Trail is a moderate half an hour walk through birch and pine along the Allt a’ Cham-ruidhe stream to views over Loch Achray and Ben A’an.
The Loch Drunkie Trail is a nice trail through oak woods to the shore of Loch Drunkie where you can look out for red squirrels. You can also take the strenuous Pine Ridge Trail up the hill to views over Loch Drunkie and the surrounding area.
There are also picnic areas, accessible toilets and plenty of view points along the drive. It’s a great place for the whole family to explore.
The charge to this drive is £3. You can pay by card, coin or RingGo.
Things to do near the drive
Three Lochs Forest Drive is a great way to start exploring the Trossachs, why not spend the day or the weekend by stopping at some of our other forests nearby?
Loch Katrine
Take the iconic Duke’s Pass north to Loch Katrine. Here you will find two walking trails and loch cruises. You can also learn more about the history of the area by taking The Great Trossachs Art & Literature Trail.
The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre
The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre has walks fit for the whole family, the GoApe zipline course, and the chance to try orienteering.
Loch Ard
Loch Ard is home to some great views over the water and various walking and cycling trails throughout the forest. It’s a great place to go wildlife watching or take the Statue Labour Road for some long-distance cycling.