Loch Brandy Trail

The Loch Brandy Trail is a steep adventure that will require several short but intense climbs up the rugged hillside. Be sure that your physical fitness is adequate for such a journey and be sure to wear sturdy walking boots with good ankle support. Additionally, remember to wear layers and pack a few extra articles of clothing, as weather conditions in the area can change rapidly.

While the trail may be steep, it is also extremely beautiful, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and locks that are set within the undulating landscape of Cairngorms National Park. Enjoy them, as you work your way uphill to the summit of Green Hill by working your way past Loch Brandy before descending along the calm waters of Loch Wharral and the rugged terrain of Rough Craig. This is a superb adventure if you are up for the challenge.

Setting out from the car park, follow the lane to the northeast for 250ft and pick up the Lock Brandy Trail branching off to the right. Follow it past the remainder of the lodges and cross over the Burn of Loch Brandy, making your way out of the tree cover to climb up the steep hillside. Although it will be physically taxing, take some time along your climb to appreciate the beautiful views surrounding you as you work your way uphill.

After 1.3mi of walking from the point where you crossed the burn, you will arrive at an intersection in the trail next to Loch Brandy. Take the path on the left to begin the steepest portion of the walk that will bring you on top of the hills surrounding the scenic lake. After trudging your way to the top, you will enjoy a sweeping view across Cairngorms National Park that includes Easter Ballock to the north, as well as Rough Craig and the serene surface of Loch Brandy to the south.

Reaching a junction in the trail overlooking the lake, keep right and continue on for 1.1mi, passing straight through a junction atop Green Hill to arrive at another overlooking Loch Wharral. Head to the right here and begin to make your way down the hillside, enjoying the views across the water as you keep to the right along the trail and eventually arrive at Rough Craig. Take some time to enjoy the views before continuing downhill to the southeast, working through a series of switchbacks for the next 1.2mi. Continue downhill as the trail bends to the northwest, leading you past several smaller lochs before following the road back to the trailhead where you began your adventure on the Loch Brandy Trail.

Other Great Walks in Cairngorms National Park

Check out our trail guides to Ben Magdui, Loch Muick, Ben Vrackie, Loch an Eilein, and the Mount Keen Walk. Or see all of our Cairngorms walks.