Loch Garten and Garten Woods Circular Walk

From the towering Garten pinewoods to the still shores of Loch Mallachie and Loch Garten, this corner of the Cairngorms park is a true delight to discover. The trail unfolds on good forest tracks and paths with only a single minor section known to be boggy. Adults, children, and four-legged friends are all welcome on the trail, however, dogs should be kept on a lead during the capercaillie breeding season that runs from April through mid-August.

Unique wildlife, particularly the rare birdlife in this area makes this walk extra special for those that enjoy bird watching. For all others, walking while tuning into the cheerful melody of the wood’s avian inhabitants is also a pleasant experience.

To begin the walk, set out from the car park, following signs for the Red Trail. As the path winds into the woods you’ll be welcomed by the fresh scent that fills the air and will likely spot a red squirrel or two, busying about. When a fork is reached and signs for the “Red Trail” head left, turn right instead and continue as the path leads deeper into the woods.

After less than a mile, keep an eye out for the thin, clear path that leads off to the left. Turn off here and continue the path, soon reaching the shores of Loch Mallachie. Upon reaching the T-Junction, spot the waymarked trail, disregarding the green arrow that prompts a left turn and instead, turning right. Up ahead you’ll take in beautiful Loch Garten through the tree line, with the option to detour to get closer to the shoreline if you wish.

When a small car park is reached, follow the green waymarked track that leads up to a tarmac road. Cross the road and make your way up the bank to join the path that mirrors the road. To pay a visit to the Osprey Centre, from here you’ll head right around 2297ft to reach it. After enjoying some time at the centre, make your way along the path to reach Speyside Way. A little further on you’ll enjoy the still waters of a tiny lochan before continuing the path to head back into the forest after a left turn. The outward route is soon joined and you’ll continue on this to return to the car park where the walk began.