(197) Banchory-Scolty Hill Forest Road Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
This is a deservedly popular short walk through a mature woodland area, but with a moderately demanding 200 m overall ascent on the sometimes steep climb to the moorland and striking tower at the top of Scolty Hill where there are splendid wide-open views.

Duration: 1:75 hours.

(186) Crathes Castle-Ley Wood-Coy Burn Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
An easy woodland walk with fairly gentle inclines. The route follows one of the permutations of the Red Squirrel Trail which links the Ley Wood Trail, the Coy Burn Trail, and the East Trail. There are some impressive carved wooden sculptures of woodland animals to appreciate along the way.

Duration: 2 hours.

(163) Strachan-Scolty Hill Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
This quieter approach, from the southern side, to the summit of the popular Scolty Hill near Banchory, provides fine scenic opportunities at every turn on the route. The tower monument at the top can be ascended by an internal staircase to provide even better all-around views.

Duration: 3.5 hours

(125) Forest of Birse Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
This is an easy upland walk in an enchanting valley surrounded by high hills. There are good views throughout the route, with a fine perspective of Birse Castle. However, this walk won’t suit everyone due to the fords to be crossed, and the consequent possible wet feet factor!

Duration: 2.5 hours.

(005) Banchory-Scolty Hill March Trail (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
*** At the time of writing in Feb 2023, this route remains closed as the Forestry & Land Scotland “March Trail” has still to re-open following damage caused by the winter storms of 2021/22. As an alternative please consider our alternative route: https://themackwalks.wordpress.com/2023/02/14/197-banchory-scolty-hill-forest-road-circuit-aberdeenshire/  ***

Starting and finishing on the outskirts of Banchory, this is a short walk through mature woodland but with a moderately demanding 200 m overall ascent, mostly in the short but steep climb to the top of Scolty Hill where there are splendid wide-open views.

Duration: 2 hours