The Aspen Path is a middle-distance route of around 4.2km which involves some rougher surfaces and short stretches with very steep inclines. If you choose this route, your efforts will be rewarded with panoramic views over Loch Lomond and the surrounding countryside. It will take you around two hours and is clearly marked by red bands on wooden posts.
Leaving the car park, walk past the visitor centre towards the hill, turning right at the end of the building before the metal gate. From here, head towards the barn and join the way-marked path at the wooden fence.
The Aspen, Birch and Pine paths run along together for a while, before the Aspen and Pine routes turn off onto a grassier track, headed towards the hill. Before the path begins to climb, look to your left beyond the ditch to see the largest wild crab apple tree in the UK and Ireland.
From here, the path ascends the sweeping hillside, with views towards Conic Hill and out across Loch Lomond and its islands. At the next fork in the path keep left and follow the red markers. After a short rise, the path becomes more level and is flanked by 'quaking' aspen trees, whose leaves tremble and shimmer with the slightest breath of wind. Look out for an old wooden marker on the left, beside a narrow path —this leads to a spot with exceptional views over the forest and the Loch beyond which is highly recommended.