Countesswells: Gairn Hill Trail

A loop round Gairn Hill Wood on the edge of Aberdeen, through old Scots pine and new planting with wide views across Aberdeenshire.

Terrain

Firm gravel with rocky, rooty and muddy parts; long moderate slopes and a few short steeper ramps.

Dogs

Forestry and Land Scotland doesn't list its own dog rules for this forest. Under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, dogs are welcome if kept under proper control: on a short lead or close at heel near farm animals, and in forests, moorland and on loch shores during the April to July bird breeding season. Pick up after your dog. Keep dogs close near livestock and cliff edges.

Start: Countesswells car park, west Aberdeen. Directions to the start

Route, map and full directions: Forestry and Land Scotland. Summary in our own words, checked 30 October 2026. Paths, tides and conditions change, so check the route before you go.

Route

We don't have a route line for this walk yet. Use the map and directions on the Forestry and Land Scotland page.