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Earth Pillars, Ordiequish

Where we are

About

An enchanting wood overlooking the River Spey

This lovely wood is a maze of old paths and tracks. Follow our trail through pines and heather to discover steep-sided Ordiequish Burn, great views and the dramatic red Earth Pillars.

There are strange stones and rocky formations throughout this wood, deposited thousands of years ago by retreating glaciers. The trail also rewards you with stunning views over the River Spey – keep a look out for ospreys fishing in the peaceful waters.

Why not visit Fochabers Folk Museum while you’re in the area? Other local attractions include Gordon Castle Walled Garden and Christies Garden Centre.

Moray Monster Trails mountain biking route card (PDF)

Walking trails

Walking

Earth Pillars Trail

A short loop through the pines to a magnificent viewpoint overlooking the River Spey and the curious red earth pillars laid down by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago.

Uneven earth path with exposed tree roots. Some short steep slopes and a flight of wooden steps.

Moderate trail grade icon grade icon
¼ miles / 0.6 km

Allow ¼ hour

Activities

Ordiequish is also home to some of the Moray Monster Trails, our maze of mountain bike routes. There are a variety of exciting trails to explore here, starting from the Ordiequish car park a mile back up the road towards Fochabers.

Facilities and access

Walking
Walking
Parking
Parking

Life’s essentials

You’ll find public toilets and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop in nearby Fochabers.

Car parking information

There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.

More about parking

Getting here

From Fochabers High Street turn south opposite the museum and follow the Ordiequish Road for 2.5 miles (4 km). The car park is on the right.

Using SatNav?

IV32 7PE is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

The nearest railway station is at Keith. Regular buses link the towns and villages along the A96 between Inverness and Aberdeen. Fochabers is the nearest stop You’ll find service details at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions

Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Phone
0300 067 6380 (option 2)
More contact information

Nearby forests

Drooping conifer branch

Meander a maze of trails through the pines

Facilities and activities
Mountain biking
Mountain biking
Walking
Walking
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Picnic area
Picnic area
Stay the Night
Stay the Night
Distance from 'Winding Walks': 0.57 miles
Drooping conifer branch

Fantastic single-track mountain bike routes for beginners through to experts

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Mountain biking
Mountain biking
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Distance from 'Moray Monster Trails': 1 miles
Drooping conifer branch

A hilltop woodland overlooking the Moray Firth

Facilities and activities
Picnic area
Picnic area
Stay the Night
Stay the Night
Walking
Walking
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Distance from 'Quarry Wood': 10.95 miles