A good walk with your dog starts with the ground underfoot, the weather and how far both of you want to go. From Tarbet, these woodland options offer shorter outings near Loch Lomond and Arrochar, with time to stop and explore. Check the land manager’s current notices before travelling.
Tarbet Isle Loop: a short woodland outing
1.1 km · allow about 30 minutes · moderate. Forestry and Land Scotland’s loop passes through woodland with views across Loch Lomond. It is a mainland trail overlooking Tarbet Isle, not a walk onto the island.
The route includes muddy ground and a short steep slope. Allow extra time for sniffing stops, keep your dog close on shared sections and use the official access directions rather than assuming there is a continuous lochside path from the village.
Check Tarbet Isle’s official trail details.
Ardgartan Riverside Trail: a longer forest stroll
2.4 km · allow about 1 hour · moderate. This woodland route follows the Croe Water. It is an option for a day when you want to spend longer outside without committing to a mountain ascent.
Expect uneven ground, exposed roots, mud, steps and two short steep slopes. Carry drinking water for your dog and keep control around the river and wildlife. Check the surface and conditions against your dog’s age and mobility before choosing it.
Read the official Ardgartan Riverside Trail description.
Is The Cobbler a sensible dog walk?
The Cobbler is a substantial hill walk, with steep and rocky sections. Even its lower approach climbs, so it should not be treated as an easy alternative for every dog. Choose it only if the route, weather and your dog’s fitness suit the outing, and turn back before either of you has had enough.
The exposed scramble to the true summit is not a dog-walking objective. For the mountain route and alternatives, read our Arrochar walks guide and the full Cobbler route description.
Walking responsibly with your dog
- Keep your dog in sight and under control; use a lead when you cannot rely on that control.
- Give wildlife, livestock and other walkers space. Do not let your dog approach people or animals uninvited.
- Choose an alternative around livestock where possible. The Access Code advises releasing your dog if cattle threaten you.
- Bag dog waste and take it away if there is no suitable bin.
- Follow temporary signs, diversions and forest-work restrictions.
Read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code’s dog-walking advice before your visit. Bring a lead, waste bags, water, a bowl and a towel; build in breaks and a shorter option if the weather changes.
Planning more than a day out?
For pet arrangements and help choosing where to stay, see our dog-friendly cottages near Loch Lomond. You can also build a 2–4 night walking break around one longer outing and gentler days, then check direct availability for your dates.
Walk, dry off, put the kettle on.
Use a self-catering cottage in Tarbet as a base for Loch Lomond, Arrochar and the surrounding walking country.