Low Path, Inchcailloch

Low Path is a roughly 0.92-mile, one-way walk from Port Bawn beach to North Pier through Inchcailloch’s western woodland. It is the island’s gentler shore route, with a few slopes and steps, rather than the steep Summit Path. Allow about 30–45 minutes, including stops. This is a crossing between two landings, not a loop; the distance follows the Low Path and its connected northern approach to the pier.

From the beach, the path heads clockwise into oakwood. Most of the way is a narrow earth-and-gravel track; one damp stretch uses wooden duckboards, and there are some steps. The island’s woods were shaped by people: oak bark was harvested for tannin used in leather-making, and the trees were replanted as that trade grew. Today, fallen timber is left where it drops unless it blocks the path or threatens visitors.

A low farm ruin sits beside the route. A short side path leads to the old churchyard, a worthwhile addition if you want the island’s human history; it is not included in the mapped distance. The last burial there was in 1947. The Low Path gives you a slower look at the woodland than the direct central crossing, without the Summit Path’s climb.

Arrange boat access from Balmaha or Luss, and confirm which landing your operator uses: this walk starts at Port Bawn and finishes at North Pier. The Central Path links the two piers directly in about 20 minutes if you need to return to Port Bawn on foot; that extra walk is not in the distance above. Island visits depend on weather and boat service.

There are compost toilets and first-come picnic tables, but no running water. Dogs are allowed under close control or on a short lead; bag and carry out their waste. Wet ground, steps and ticks are the main practical concerns, so stay on the marked path.