Home > Loch Lomond canoe expedition 24-27th July
Loch Lomond canoe expedition 24-27th July
Loch Lomond canoe expedition 24-27th July
Friday–Sunday | Starting and finishing at Balmaha
Join us for a spectacular 3‑day canoe expedition exploring the eastern shores and central islands of Loch Lomond, the largest body of freshwater in mainland Britain. This journey offers a true sense of adventure, wild camping, and the freedom of travelling self‑sufficiently by canoe.
Overview
- Activity: Open Canoe Expedition
- Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
- Location: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
- Start/Finish: Balmaha
- Accommodation: Wild camping on islands
- Suitable for: Paddlers with basic canoe skills and a sense of adventure
The spectacular waters of Loch Lomond are ideal for canoeing, with sheltered channels, intriguing bays, and a chain of islands perfect for exploration. Over three days we will journey from the eastern shore at Balmaha, weaving through the central belt of islands and camping wild along the way.
Loch Lomond is rich in wildlife — keep an eye out for osprey, highland cattle, six‑horned feral goats, and even the occasional wallaby. With stunning views of the surrounding hills and plenty of opportunities to explore on and off the water, this is a memorable expedition suitable for mixed‑ability club paddlers.
Each day will involve steady paddling with breaks, exploring islands, setting up camp, cooking together, and enjoying evenings in beautiful surroundings.
Plan
Day 1 – Friday
Meet at Balmaha car park, unload boats, and paddle into the island chain. Explore sheltered bays and channels before establishing our first wild camp.
Day 2 – Saturday
A full day of island‑hopping through the central belt. Opportunities for skills practice, short walks to explore bays, and wildlife spotting. Second night wild camping.
Day 3 – Sunday
Return journey via alternative islands and scenic routes. Land back at Balmaha, unload kit, and return equipment.
Route may vary depending on weather and group needs.
Equipment
Club Kit Available
- Canoes, paddles, wetsuit+cag, buoyancy aids, helmets
- Dry bags/barrels (limited)
- Group shelters and stoves (as required)
All club kit must be signed out, transported to the venue by participants, and returned after the trip.
Participants Need
- Camping gear (small tent/hammock, sleeping bag, mat)
- Food + for 3 days / 2 nights
- Warm layers and waterproofs
- Personal medication
- Water bottles (2–3L capacity)
A full kit/ list will be provided with bought tickets
Skill Level
This trip is suitable for paddlers who:
- Can control a canoe in light winds
- Can paddle for several hours with breaks
- Are comfortable with wild camping
- Are willing to work as part of a team
Leaders will support paddlers throughout and ensure the journey is safe and enjoyable.
Safety
- Led by qualified and experienced club leaders
- Safety briefing at the start
- Group paddling protocols in place
- Wild camping conducted responsibly and in line with National Park bylaws
Booking
Spaces are limited due to island camping capacity.
kayakers happy to slow paddle with canoes and can carry there own equipment are also welcome.
If you’re unsure about any kit, fitness, or suitability, please get in touch — we’re happy to help.