The wooded hills and lochs of the area may be considered to represent a microcosm of a typical highland landscape,[1] and the woodlands are an important habitat for many species.

[1] Scenic boat rides on Loch Katrine are popular with visitors: the steamer SS Sir Walter Scott, launched in 1899, remains in operation.

[11] It lies at the centre of the wider region, which is generally regarded as being bounded by Glen Gyle to the south, with the western boundary being the road between Stronachlachar and Aberfoyle.

The section between Aberfoyle and the Trossachs glen runs through the Achray Forest, reaching a height of 238 m above sea level at the summit of the Duke's Pass.

[11] The Lake of Menteith, situated near Aberfoyle, lies about six miles (10 km) to the south east of the glen, on the edge of the Trossachs area.

[12] There are several prehistoric sites in the area, including a cup and ring marked rock and burnt mounds in Glen Finglas.

Scott followed up with his 1817 historical novel Rob Roy romanticising the outlaw cattle thief Raibert Ruadh, who was born by Loch Katrine[9] and buried at nearby Balquhidder.

The Trossachs Hotel was built on the north bank of Loch Achray in response to the growing number of tourists visiting the region.

[16] In 1859, a dam was built at the eastern end of Loch Katrine and connecting aqueducts were added to as part of a new main water supply to Glasgow.

[citation needed] The forests of the Trossachs comprise both areas of ancient, semi-natural and traditionally managed woodland alongside commercial forestry plantations.

[23] The project aims to deliver a varied landscape that provides habitats for species that are otherwise rare in Britain, including black grouse, golden eagle, osprey, wildcat, pine marten, red squirrel, water vole and otter.

[31][32] The chief hills of the Trossachs are:[1] The major lochs in the area are:[9] Additionally, the Lake of Menteith may be regarded as lying on the boundaries of the district.