Image shared for Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail
Countryside Circular

Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

Highland

Distance
2.9 mi
Est. time
2h
Difficulty
Hard
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Start at the Dog Falls car park in Glen Affric and follow the yellow Coire Loch waymarkers. The route follows the river towards Dog Falls, crosses the narrow footbridge and climbs through pine and birch woodland to Coire Loch. Continue around the lochan on the marked path, join the forest track and follow the yellow return route towards Dog Falls. Retrace the riverside path to the car park, with a short out-and-back look from the nearby footbridge.

Allow around two hours, including a stop beside the lochan. This is an established woodland trail with no summit ascent, but Forestry and Land Scotland grades it strenuous. Expect narrow, uneven gravel paths, roots, rocky sections, stone steps and a sustained steep slope. It needs sure footing and reasonable fitness, particularly in wet weather.

Ancient Scots pines and silver birches surround the route. Water lilies appear on the lochan in summer, and woodland birds are worth listening for throughout the year. Use the established viewpoints at the falls, stay away from gorge edges and keep to the marked path. Keep dogs under close control and take care around the parking entrance.

The car park has toilets and picnic facilities. Parking currently costs £3 for up to three hours, with coin, card and RingGo payment. There are no shops or cafes in the glen, so bring food, water and waterproofs. Mobile reception is limited; download the route beforehand and check FLS notices before travelling.

Route information: Forestry and Land Scotland's Coire Loch trail guide and Dog Falls route card.

Walk details

County
Highland
Walk type
Circular
Category
Countryside
Distance
2.9 mi (4.6 km)
Est. time
2h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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