A beautiful walk amongst ancient Caledonian pines leads to magical An Lochan Uaine - the green lochan. From there a detour with gentle climb leads up the Ryvoan pass. The return walk has good views of Loch Morlich and Cairngorm.
Summary
Forestry track and paths with one steep section with rough steps.
Terrain
Users'
rating
1. Start the walk by walking up to the Visitor centre and then skirting round the left side of the building. From here a path climbs steeply uphill signed with a blue and orange marker post. The path goes uphill through pine woods and then emerges onto a track where you turn right. When the track joins another track at a house turn left and climb gently uphill passing some impressive Scots Pines. Pass a seat with lovely views across to Cairngorm and follow the path as it narrows and becomes much rougher underfoot.
2. Continue on the path as it contours the side of the hill and then descends using boardwalks and steps at times. The path emerges onto a large path coming up the valley; An Lochan Uaine, is just opposite. The water here always has a greenish tint and there are steps leading down to the waters edge. From the lochan return to the main stony path and follow it uphill to the left.
3. Where the path forks take the left hand path signed for Nethy Bridge. There are excellent views back down the glen. A little further on, Ryvoan bothy is reached, more or less at the head of the pass. This bothy is maintained by volunteers from the Mountain Bothy Association and if you do stop inside for a break it is appreciated if you could assist the MBA by carrying out any rubbish you find. Please leave a report on the bothy's condition at its page on the MBA website.
4. From the bothy retrace the outward route down to An Lochan Uaine. From here follow the track as it descends the glen until you reach the road just before Glenmore Lodge, the national outdoor training centre. Turn right when you get to the road to join a path which follows the line of the road providing an off-road route back to the Forest Park visitor centre and the start of the walk. Alternatively, for a slightly longer and prettier route, you can follow the blue marker posts which turn left just before Glenmore Lodge and follow the stream back up to the road where you turn left to return to the visitor centre.
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