Banavie to Glen Loy Aqueduct: Neptune’s Staircase Canal Towpath

Start at Banavie Locks public car park, beside Neptune’s Staircase. Take the gravel footpath from the south end of the car park towards the canal and the separate pedestrian and cycle crossing beside Banavie Swing Bridge. Cross to the eastern towpath and turn left, following the Great Glen Way north beside the eight locks. Wait at any closed bridge barriers and keep clear of lock equipment.

Beyond the top basin, stay on the broad canal towpath as it leaves Banavie, passing Upper Banavie and Torcastle. Follow the bends beside the water towards Muirshearlich and the River Loy aqueduct. The turnaround is on the towpath above the aqueduct, where the canal carries on across the River Loy. Return by exactly the same towpath and bridge to the car park. The route does not descend into the aqueduct’s tunnels, which also serve as flood arches.

Allow around four hours for the 13 km return, including time around the locks. There is a short climb beside the staircase, then mostly level walking on firm towpath, with a gravel parking approach. Canal and lock edges require care, and the shared towpath also carries cyclists and occasional maintenance traffic. Keep dogs under control and leads clear of other users. Bring water and food for the rural section. Scottish Canals currently lists Banavie Locks parking as free; check the signs on arrival. Banavie railway station is nearby.

Route and access information: Highland Council’s Great Glen Way route map and Fort William to Gairlochy guidance, Scottish Canals’ Caledonian Canal walking and Neptune’s Staircase visitor pages, and Historic Environment Scotland’s River Loy aqueduct record. Checked 4 October 2026 against the canal works programme; check Scottish Canals and local signs again before setting out.