Crisp Air, Colourful Leaves: Top autumnal walks
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to show off their rich autumn hues, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a deload week and make the most of the changing season. We are lucky to have some wonderful spots nearby where you can unwind with a gentle walk, breathe in the cool autumn air, and listen to the crispy leaves. These five scenic walks offer something for everyone, whether you’re an avid dog walker, looking for something to do with the kids, or simply looking to unwind in the heart of nature.
1. Rouken Glen Park
Location: Rouken Glen Rd, Glasgow, G46 7JL
Link: Rouken Glen Park Walk
Facilities: Toilets, parking, café
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Highlights: Waterfall, play park, woodland paths
Rouken Glen Park is a lovely escape just a short drive from Glasgow city centre. This large, well-maintained park has varying routes to take with a large wooded section which includes a stream, some ruins and finally a waterfall which leads round to the pond. On the weekend there’s often model boats in the water too which are fun to watch!
There’s a few cafés in the park making it easy to grab a warm drink after your walk. The one near the pond offers puppachino’s too! If you're walking with kids or dogs, the park is a great spot for both—there’s a fantastic play park, and it is possible for a pram to navigate. Facilities like public toilets and ample parking are available, making it a convenient stop during your deload week.
2. Luss Quarry and Faerie Trail
Location: Visitor Centre Car Park, Luss, G83 8PA
Link: Luss Quarry and River Path
Facilities: No public toilets at the trailhead, but amenities available in the village
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Highlights: Loch Lomond views, magical faerie trails, woodland charm
The Luss Quarry and Faerie Trail offers a walk full of enchantment, perfect for an autumnal day. The main trail is free to follow, but you can also opt for the paid Faerie Trail experience, which includes an activity booklet, a small petting farm and a pumpkin at the end. However you can still enjoy part of this trail while on this public footpath walk without paying.
As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by the golden colours of autumn, with views of Loch Lomond glistening nearby. The Faerie Trail adds a touch of magic to your walk, especially if you’re exploring with children! Though there are no public toilets at the trailhead, there are facilities in the nearby village of Luss. You can pay for parking in the town of Luss, with 4 hours being around £4.
3. Falls of Falloch
Location: Stirling, FK20 8RL
Link: Falls of Falloch Walk
Facilities: No public toilets
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Highlights: Stunning waterfall, Loch Lomond nearby
A visit to the Falls of Falloch is the perfect way to recharge during a deload week. This walk is relatively short and easy, making it ideal if you’re looking for something light and gentle. As you follow the path to the falls, you’ll be surrounded by dense forest, and the soothing sounds of water rushing over rocks will greet you as you approach the waterfall.
Autumn adds another layer of beauty to the experience, with the surrounding trees turning shades of amber and gold. Though there are no public toilets available at the site, the peaceful setting and striking views of the falls make it well worth the trip.
4. Palacerigg Country Park
Location: 3 Palacerigg Golf Club, Cumbernauld, Glasgow G67 3HU
Link: Palacerigg and Glencryan Circular
Facilities: Toilets available
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Highlights: Woodland paths, play park, wildlife spotting
Palacerigg Country Park offers an ideal space for an autumn walk. The park’s well-maintained woodland paths are perfect for taking in the beautiful autumn leaves and breathing in the cool air. There’s also plenty of space for wildlife watching—keep an eye out for deer and birds as you wander through the park.
Palacerigg has a wonderful playpark, making it a good spot for children, and there are public toilets available and the walk length is easily adjustable to what you fancy that day.
5. Mugdock Country Park
Location: Milngavie, Mugdock, Glasgow G62 8EL
Link: Mugdock Park Circular Walk
Facilities: Toilets, parking, café, visitor center.
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Highlights: Castle ruins, loch for wild swimming, scenic woodlands
Mugdock Country Park is one of the most picturesque spots near Glasgow and is especially stunning in autumn. The park features miles of woodland paths lined with trees that turn vibrant colours in the fall. One of the main highlights is exploring the ruins of Mugdock Castle, which give the park a historic and slightly mysterious atmosphere.
If you're up for it, there's even a loch where you can take a dip, though always be sure to follow water safety advice and never swim alone. The park also offers plenty of amenities including toilets, parking, and a visitor center with a café, making it a perfect location to relax and refresh during your deload week.
Final Thoughts
Taking a gentle walk during your deload week can be the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of autumn while incorporating some gentle movement. From waterfalls to faerie trails, these five locations offer something for everyone! So grab your walking boots, maybe a hot drink from a café along the way, and enjoy the peacefulness of an autumn day spent in nature.