Gairlochy canal circuit

 LOCH LOCHY, GLEN GARRY AND KNOYDART

An easy and almost level walk using with stunning views up the length of Loch Lochy and across the Caledonian Canal and River Lochy to Ben Nevis.

Summary

An easy walk on the canal towpath and minor road.

Terrain

NN176842

Grid ref

6.5km/4 miles

Distance

grade Key

Grade

72m [Profile]

Ascent

2 hours

Time

Bog Factor

Start

Maps

  Download walk in GPX format
  For use with Memory Map, Anquet etc.

GPS Waypoints

View in 3D

Users'
rating

No trip reports have been submitted for this walk. Why not be the first?
Add your own report on this walk and win £40 of TISO vouchers each month

Users'
reports

No public transport to walk start.
Open Traveline Scotland

Public transport

Press play button to listen

  Tell me more

Pronunciation
and meaning


Gairlochy canal circuit no. 1

1. Park at Gairlochy; there is limited parking on the left hand side of the road as it leads up to the canal. Walk to the canal and instead of crossing the swing bridge turn right and go through a gate to reach the canalside. Follow the towpath as is passes a number of houses and the Telford tearoom (seasonal) and the double locks. Pass the boat moorings and go straight ahead through a gate. Here the path narrows and soon reaches the pepper pot lighthouse used to guide boats to the canal entrance. This is a delightful and peaceful spot with a seat and a fine view along the length of Loch Lochy.



Gairlochy canal circuit no. 2

2. Retrace your steps to the swing bridge at Gairlochy. This time cross the bridge and turn left along the B8004 which eventually leads to Corpach. Follow this minor road for approximately 1.5 kilometres, with great views of Ben Nevis, until you reach some mature trees at a farm entrance on the left just before the road dips to cross a stream. The route is marked as a footpath for Moy Bridge and Graveyard. Turn left onto this farm track and before reaching a large barn turn right following a red arrowed sign. Pass through a farm gate and onto a track that curves to the left to head towards the canal straight ahead.



Gairlochy canal circuit no. 3

3. At the canal turn right and continue on the track until you reach Moy bridge. The cast iron bridge is unique on the canal and was constructed in pieces in North Wales before being assembled on site in 1821. In order to open it, the keeper has to open the south leaf first and then row across the canal to open the remaining section - a time-consuming job that is still carried out today. Cross the bridge and turn left along the far side of the canal. NB. The bridge is occassionally open and at these times obviously cannot be crossed. In that case you could either return the way you came, or continue for a further 1.5 km along the canal to reach the aquaduct over the River Loy. A track descends from the canal back to the left soon after this and it is possible to pass under the canal (the tunnel is wet underfoot) to reach the road.



Gairlochy canal circuit no. 4

4. Follow the track which keeps beside the canal right back to Gairlochy. The countryside is beautiful, with rich green pasture land and the looming giant of Ben Nevis, flecked with snow for most of the year, as backdrop. As Gairlochy is approached the River Lochy comes close to the right side of the track, which sticks to the narrow strip of land between river and canal before emerging at Gairloch swing bridge.



Have you found an error or is any information wrong or missing?

Please let us know by using the error report form.

Quick links:
Invergarry Hotels
Invergarry B&B
Invergarry cottages
Fort William hostels


Route profile


Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is the walkers responsibility to check it and navigate using a map and compass.
See our Terms of use, Disclaimer, Privacy and Copyright Policies for more details. ©2006-2009 walkhighlands.co.uk