This 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. Moy Bridge is often left open - in which case you could retrace steps along the towpath.
Bog Factor
An easy walk on the canal towpath and minor road.
Gairlochy.
No public transport to walk start.
NN176842
Park at Gairlochy; there is limited parking on the left hand side of the road as it leads up to the canal. The walk begins with an out-and-back trip to the shores of Loch Lochy. As the road leads up to the canal (from Spean Bridge), with the parking area on the left, turn right through a gate to walk along the towpath. Follow the towpath as it passes a number of houses and the double locks. Pass the boat moorings and continue by the canal.
The path narrows and soon reaches the "pepper pot" lighthouse used to guide boats to the canal entrance from Loch Lochy. This is a truly stunning spot, and a bench beside the lighthouse offers a magnificent view along the length of Loch Lochy.
Retrace your steps to the swing bridge at Gairlochy. Do not cross, but this time go through the gate to continue along the canal in the opposite direction. Follow the track - also the route of the Great Glen Way - which keeps beside the canal, with the river sometimes in view below to your left. 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.
Eventually the track the 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 until recently had to row across the canal to open the remaining section - a time-consuming job. Depending on whether farm traffic or boats are expected, the bridge may be either in an open or closed position. If the bridge is available, cross it and turn right on the far side of the canal. (If the bridge is open so that you cannot cross, it's best to instead retrace your steps along the towpath back to Gairlochy).
After 200m the track swings left away from the canal. At Moy Farm keep left to reach the minor road, then turn right along it. The road leads back to Gairloch but is fairly quiet, and the extra elevation means it gives even better views than those from the canal, especially to Ben Nevis. After 1.5km a fork is reached - keep right here, then right again to return to Gairlochy. Cross the swing road bridge to head back to the start.
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