Gairlochy canal circuit

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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. If Moy Bridge is left open then the walk would need to be extended by 3km in total to complete the circuit.

Terrain

An easy walk on the canal towpath and minor road.

Public Transport

No public transport to walk start.

Start

Gairlochy. Map and directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 6.5km / 4 miles
Time: 2 hours
Ascent: 72m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NN176842

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 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 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.

Stage 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.

Stage 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 until recently had to row across the canal to open the remaining section - a time-consuming job. Cross the bridge and turn left along the far side of the canal. (NB. The bridge is sometimes left open and at these times cannot be crossed. In that case you could either return the way you came, or continue for a further 1.5 km along the road until opposite the minor road to Glen Loy. Go left here to head down a track that descends to pass under the canal. On the far side turn right to head up to the canal towpath, then turn right again along the towpath to begin the walk back to Gairlochy.)

Stage 4

Follow the track - also the route of the Great Glen Way - 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 Gairlochy swing bridge.

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