Every step of this short circular walk is a delight, passing through beautiful woodland close to the banks of a dramatic foaming river. The river is crossed at each end of the walk by picturesque old stone bridges.
Summary
Waymarked path and track.
Terrain
Silverbridge car park
[Map of start point, satnav coords and directions]
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1. Park at the car park (signed for public toilets) just off the A835 near the bridge over the Black Water 2km north Garve. From the car park take the footpath that slopes down from near the entrance to head cross the old, double-arched stone bridge which affords great views upriver. On the far bank immediately turn right, following the path which passes under the modern road bridge and into the woodland. The old bridge - Silver Bridge - forms part of an ancient drove route for cattle being taken down to market in the south. Nearby was an important stopping point where cattle were often shod. After passing under the road the path climbs through woods and reaches two houses at a track.
2. Turn right along the track and follow this for around half a kilometre. Look out for a path - waymarked in yellow - which heads off to the right downhill. Eventually the path forks; the path to the right leads only a few paces to reveal grand view upriver. After enjoying this return to the fork and continue downhill to reach the riverbank.
3. The path then follows the Black Water which frets and fumes as it forces its way through a river bed chocked with massive rocks and slabs. Continue until a stile leads out of the forest onto a track where a beautiful high arched old bridge leads over the river to the right. The bridge was built in 1752 as part of a military road from Contin to Poolewe constructed by Major Caulfield - successor to the famous General Wade.
4. If you want to extend the walk at this point you can keep straight on and walk along the track for 2 km to a viewpoint over Loch Garve before returning to this point. Otherwise cross the bridge and then turn immediately right onto a path into the woodland. There is a confusion of paths at first as the route skirts a picnic area, and you may end up on a track. If you do, turn right by an information board to regain the path which leads upriver. There are beautiful views over the tumbling waters.
5. Continue following the waymarked route back upstream; it keeps close to the river bank. The path is easy to follow and passes through beautiful woodland, crossing a footbridge over a small burn at one point. When the path forks it doesn't matter which branch is taken; both rejoin before the path heads under the main road and back up to the car park at Silverbridge.
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