Walking in the Cairngorms

Table of Contents

Aviemore, nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, offers a variety of family-friendly walks suitable for all ages and abilities.

Here’s a curated list:

Loch an Eilein Circular Walk

  • Length: 5 km (3.1 miles)

  • Terrain: Flat, well-maintained gravel path through ancient Caledonian pine forest.

  • Start/Finish: Loch an Eilein car park, Rothiemurchus Estate.

  • Highlights: Scenic loch with a 14th-century island castle, abundant wildlife, and picnic spots.

Loch Morlich Circuit

  • Length: 5.6 km (3.5 miles)

  • Terrain: Easy gravel and sandy paths, some sections may be muddy.

  • Start/Finish: Loch Morlich car park, near Glenmore Visitor Centre.

  • Highlights: Britain’s highest beach, views of the Cairngorms, and proximity to the Reindeer Centre.

Ryvoan Bothy & Lochan Uaine

  • Length: 6 km (3.7 miles) round trip

  • Terrain: Gentle forest trail with slight inclines.

  • Start/Finish: Glenmore Visitor Centre.

  • Highlights: The enchanting ‘Green Lochan’ and a traditional bothy, surrounded by ancient woodland.

Craigellachie National Nature Reserve Trails

  • Length: Options range from 0.7 km to 4.4 km (0.4 to 2.7 miles)

  • Terrain: Varied; includes flat woodland paths and steeper routes to viewpoints.

  • Start/Finish: Aviemore Youth Hostel or underpass beneath the A9.

  • Highlights: Diverse habitats, panoramic views of the Cairngorms, and rich biodiversity.

Aviemore Orbital Path

  • Length: 8.5 km (5.3 miles)

  • Terrain: Mix of paved and unpaved paths; generally flat with some muddy sections.

  • Start/Finish: Aviemore town centre.

  • Highlights: Encircles Aviemore, offering views of the River Spey and surrounding landscapes.

Old Logging Way

  • Length: Approximately 9 km (5.6 miles) one-way

  • Terrain: Wide, well-maintained forest track suitable for walking and cycling.

  • Start/Finish: Aviemore to Glenmore.

  • Highlights: Traverses Rothiemurchus Forest, offering a peaceful woodland experience.

Boat of Garten to Aviemore Trail

  • Length: 9.6 km (6 miles)

  • Terrain: Well-signposted, wide track with gentle gradients.

  • Start/Finish: Boat of Garten to Aviemore.

  • Highlights: Runs alongside the Strathspey Steam Railway, providing opportunities to see the train in action.

Lower Cas Loop

  • Length: 1.5 km (0.9 miles)

  • Terrain: Gentle gradient on lower mountain slopes.

  • Start/Finish: Day Lodge, Cairngorm Mountain.

  • Highlights: Short loop with views of the funicular railway and surrounding mountains. ​

These walks offer a range of experiences, from tranquil lochside strolls to immersive forest adventures, all within easy reach of Aviemore. Remember to check local conditions and weather forecasts before setting out, and ensure you have appropriate footwear and clothing.

Clunnie Mor

3 bed / sleeps 6

Coire Cas

3 bed / sleeps 6

Croftside House

4 bed / sleeps 8+1

Cairn View

3 bed / sleeps 6