Paddleboarding
With its numerous lochs and lochans to explore, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park has something special to offer every kind of paddler. Loch Lomond has many islands which provide sheltered waters whilst the open expanse of the loch allows more competent paddlers to enjoy open water conditions.
There are a variety of places to launch a paddleboard given they are so easy to put in the water, require very little space and shallow water is not an issue.
Under 16s must wear Life Jackets or Buoyancy Aids
Under 16? You MUST wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid when you’re on any moving vessel.
- This includes boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and any other vessel on the water whether it has an engine or not.
- You can take them off when you’re in a fully enclosed cabin, but remember to put them on again when you leave the cabin.
And remember – life jackets or buoyancy aids must still be carried on board for all those 16 and over, under the new byelaws. Although wearing them is always better!
Whether you are an experienced paddler or are heading into the water for the first time; it’s essential that you’re well prepared before getting in the water.
- Check the weather forecast before you set out, and be aware that conditions on the Loch can change quickly
- Avoid offshore winds. They will quickly blow your paddleboard far out, which can make it extremely tiring and difficult to paddle back to shore. Avoid launching in windy conditions.
Before you head out read our guide on how to have fun and stay safe in the water.
In an emergency call 999, ask for Police and the rescue boat and provide the exact location of the emergency.
Please ensure you always wear a buoyancy aid when out on the water. For further advice on how to stay safe whilst paddleboarding, Water Safety Scotland has some great information, or visit the British Stand Up Paddleboarding Association.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy a paddleboarder’s view of Loch Lomond!
Stop the spread
Invasive non-native species are one of the key threats to nature in the National Park. Aquatic plants and animals can sometimes be unwittingly transported into a new environment on people’s equipment such as wetsuits, kayaks and fishing gear. The introduction of new species can threaten the delicate ecosystems in the National Park.
Every time you leave any body of water (in or outside of the National Park), please follow the national ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ guidance:
- Check your equipment and clothing for living organisms. Pay particular attention to damp or hard to inspect areas.
- Clean and wash all equipment, footwear and clothes thoroughly. If you do come across any organisms, leave them at the water body where you found them or on a hard surface to die out.
- Dry all equipment and clothing. Some species can live for many days in damp conditions.
Read the full Check, Clean and Dry guides for different water users.