A straightforward one-way walk following a section of the national cycleway between the Slochd alpine ski centre, just off the A9 near the Slochd summit to Carrbridge. The route passes through pine and birch woods and has open views of the moorland as well as crossing the picturesque stone bridge at Sluggan. The walk finishes at Carrbridge which has all amenities.
Summary
Track and minor road, sometimes muddy for short sections.
Terrain
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1. Start the walk near Slochd Mhor Lodge, an alpine ski centre and hostel, off the A9 just south of the Slochd summit. There is parking on the right hand side before the railway bridge. Begin the walk by crossing the bridge and following the track into the forest. The route continues through these pine woods and passes a small stream named Colins Leap. Continue on the track until you reach the house at Insharn. Don't go through the gate but keep left and follow the track past the house and uphill. The track undulates as it keeps just outside the forestry plantation.
2. There are good views to the Monadliath mountains to the right with some nice stands of Scots Pine in the foreground. Keep going until a fork is reached. Take the uphill, left hand track and continue following the fence line. Sometimes this part of the track can be muddy after wet weather. The track climbs gently uphill with good views out over the countryside.
3. Eventually the track flattens and moves away from the plantation and into an area of sparse trees including a number of junipers. A short, fairly steep descent brings the lovely stone arch of Sluggan Bridge into view. This bridge was built as part of General Wade's military roads that cross the Highlands. Cross the bridge and continue straight ahead on the track, passing an estate house on the right.
4. The track goes into woodland and climbs a short uphill section and turns left at the top. As the track levels off there are good views of the River Dulnain below. After a short while the track meets a minor road at a gate.
5. Turn left onto the road and follow it all the way to Carrbridge, crossing under the A9 and the railway and then passing the small settlement of Ellan on the way. The road emerges near the old and new bridge onto the main street. Turn right to reach the shops, toilets and to see any carvings remaining from the annual chain saw carving competition held here.
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