Forests in the Great Glen
Forests in the Great Glen
The Great Glen follows 80 miles of lochs and rivers,from Glencoe and Fort William in the south to Inverness in the north.
It's a fantastic route through the Highlands, with exceptional scenery and gorgeous forests. You can walk, cycle and canoe the Great Glen Way, or drive along the A82 and explore lots of waymarked trails as you go.
Along the way, you can find old oaks, impressive conifers, classic Scots pines and native woodlands full of bluebells.
Forests to visit
Northern end: Drumnadrochit to Inverfairgaig
Balnain
Find peace off the beaten track near Loch Ness. Balnain is home to the long and strenuous Loch Meiklie View Trail that offers great views, great for long cycles.
Change House
Wander through hazel woods along the shore of Loch Ness to the ruins of the Change House.
Craigmonie
Spectacular views over Urquhart Bay from the crag named after a Viking Prince. Keep an eye out for birds as you climb through the pines.
Divach Falls
Oaks, atmosphere and dramatic waterfalls over Urquhart Bay. Watch water tumble 100 feet to the Divach Burn.
Farigaig
Beautiful colours, red squirrels and a magical hill loch on the quiet south side of Loch Ness. The rocky trails wind through tall conifers to reach a secluded lochan.
Middle of the Glen: Fort Augustus to Invergarry
Allt na Criche
Follow a beautiful burn through pine and birch woods to views over Loch Ness. Watch out for wildlife like red squirrels, pine marten and red deer.
River Oich
A good place for spotting squirrels foraging for pinecones or for listening to birdsong and the dreamy sound of flowing water.
Torr Dhuin
Commanding views over the Caledonian Canal from an Iron Age hill fort. In prehistoric times it probably defended this important route through the mountains.
Glengarry
Tucked away just off the main road from Fort William to Inverness, you’ll find two trails that explore the big river, big trees and big views of Glengarry.
Loch Oich
Stop the car. Spread out a picnic and wiggle your toes in the loch. Great for a lovely walk on the shore.
Southern end: Fort William
Glen Nevis
A beautiful glen with stunning views of Britain’s highest mountain. Walk up to an iron age hill fort or loop around Cow Hill for great views of the Munros.
Leanachan
Miles of routes snake across the northern side of Ben Nevis. You’ll find plenty of choices for gentle cycling, walking and running.
North Face
Hill walkers and climbers head here for the crags of Carn Mor Dearg and Ben Nevis. However, a waymarked trail gives everyone a taste of the wild northern slopes.