Loch Morlich

Enjoy peaceful views of open water and the mountains beyond

As you reach Loch Morlich on the road from Aviemore, a stretch of bright water through the trees invites you to stop and admire the view. This is the perfect place to do just that – and to spend some time watching the world go by. The view of the Cairngorms from here is a classic: in still conditions the rounded slopes are mirrored in the water.

Don't forget to pay a visit to the award-winning Loch Morlich Beach too.

Walking trails

Glenmore Forest Park route card (PDF)

Walking

Loch Morlich Trail

A charming circuit round the water, with fine views of the mountains above and a good chance of seeing Goldeneye, red-throated divers and even otters.

Mostly wide, smooth and flat gravel surface. Some uneven gravel sections, with potentially muddy areas. Short moderate slopes and one steep ramp. Includes two road crossings.

3 ½ miles / 5.8 km

Allow 2 hours

More information

Winding through Forestry and Land Scotland land, with the loch shining through the trees, this trail gives you a real experience of the great swathe of woodland that washes against the slopes of the Cairngorms. Look out for Beavers, dippers, wagtails and herons by the burns that feed the loch along the way.

Facilities and access

Walking

Cycling

Parking (charge)

Picnic area

Public toilets are available 24 hours at Loch Morlich Beach car park (1 April- 31 October) and in Glenmore village (year round).

No camping is allowed within the car park area and fires and barbecues are not permitted. For more information on best practice in the outdoors, visit the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Car parking information

This car park is managed in partnership with The Highland Council, and enforced parking charges apply. Parking overnight between the hours of 11:00 pm and 6:00 am is not permitted. Please visit The Highland Council for charges, terms of parking and ways to pay. Our parking passes or tickets are not valid 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. Nearby car parks with free parking can be found in our Forest Search.

Getting here

From the roundabout at the south end of Aviemore follow the signs for 'The Cairngorms' for 5 miles. The car park entrance will appear on the right shortly after you first sight the loch through the trees.

You can cycle here from Aviemore on the Old Logging Way; a superb, safe bike route that runs for 6 miles between Aviemore and the Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Centre.

Using SatNav?

PH22 1QU is the nearest postcode. Coming from Aviemore, you'll reach Loch Morlich 1 mile before you get to this destination.

Public transport

Buses between Aviemore and the Cairngorm Mountain ski centre pass Loch Morlich. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions