The Cairngorms National Park is currently reviewing the walking routes it has designated as 'core paths' and would appreciate input from walkers. The Cairngorms has the most extensive system of core paths in Scotland and the National Park has been very proactive in getting the network into good condition through a programme of path construction, improvement and signage. Following the extension of the National Park boundary to include the area around Blair Atholl, the Cairngorms is the first access authority in Scotland to review its core paths plan and propose extending it. Designating routes as 'core paths' is important as…

After the death of a dog walker in England last month, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Scottish Land & Estates, and NFU Scotland are advising dog walkers to avoid fields with cows and young calves. The three organisations say that cattle may see dogs as a threat and react aggressively or panic when they have dependent young calves and they advise walkers: – Don't take a dog into a field where there are calves, lambs and other young animals. Walk through a neighbouring field or on the land next to it. In more open country, keep your dog on a short…

Lochivroan bothy will be closed between Monday 20 May and Wednesday 29 May. Each year the Inverbroom estate allows a school to have exclusive use of this small bothy. The estate apologies for any inconvenience caused and says there will be a notice displayed at the Braemore end of the access track. Lochivroan bothy is below Craig Rainich and the Western Fannichs and is a non-MBA bothy, maintained by the estate.

Shenavall Bothy will be closed for repair work from 4th to 12th May. The bothy is frequently used as a start point for the Fisherfield Munros and is also a popular stop on through walks such as the Cape Wrath Trail. The bothy is maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association and the repair work is being undertaken by volunteers.

We’ve received reports that the footbridge over the Water of Tulla at NN353468 is currently badly damaged. Only two twisted and damaged iron girders remain. If the water level is low it is usually possible to cross the river just upstream, but in spate conditions this becomes impossible, in which case it is better to remain on the south side of the Water of Tulla at the earlier track bridge. The bridge is part of the usual route up Beinn a’Chreachain and Beinn Achaladair – a pair of Munros overlooking Rannoch Moor. Thanks to forum user IamAJMiller for submitting the…