The best walks and hikes around Loch Ericht

Yes, the area offers several easier options. The landscape around the village of Dalwhinnie has well-maintained tracks that are great for a leisurely stroll. A popular choice is a walk of about an hour towards The Shieling, a gatehouse for the Ben Alder Estate, which provides a fantastic viewpoint over the loch.

For a moderately challenging hike, consider the Meall Chruaidh Summit Trail – Meall Chuaich Summit Cairn loop from Dalwhinnie Distillery. This route takes you into the hills, offering rewarding views without the commitment of a full Munro ascent. It's a great way to experience the Highland terrain.

The area is renowned for its challenging, remote hikes. A classic adventure is the journey to Ben Alder Cottage bothy at the southern end of the loch. This remote refuge serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Munros and offers a true wilderness experience for seasoned hikers.

Yes, there are several circular routes. For a rewarding day out bagging a couple of Munros, The Drumochter Munros circuit is an excellent option. This trail provides a comprehensive tour of the high tops east of the A9 with incredible panoramic views.

Yes, dogs are welcome on many trails. However, this is a working landscape with livestock and abundant wildlife, including ground-nesting birds and Red Deer. It's essential to keep your dog under close control at all times, and on a lead where required, to ensure the safety of both your pet and the local fauna.

Dalwhinnie serves as the main starting point for many hikes. There is parking available in the village, often near the train station or the Dalwhinnie Distillery. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, as spaces can fill up quickly with hikers heading for the hills.

The village of Dalwhinnie is exceptionally well-connected for a Highland location. It has a train station with services on the Highland Main Line, connecting to cities like Perth, Inverness, and Glasgow. This makes it possible to access many of the area's best trailheads without a car.

While the main draw is the loch and mountains, a short drive away you can find Pattack Falls. This series of waterfalls in a wooded gorge is a local gem and offers a lovely, short walk, making it a great addition to your trip.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 1,900 hikers having explored the area. Reviewers often praise the sense of isolation and the raw, untamed beauty of the landscape. The challenging ascents to Munro summits and the long, peaceful lochside tracks are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Yes, wild camping is generally permitted in the area, following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Popular spots include Alder Bay, which is a common staging point for ascending Ben Alder. Please ensure you leave no trace, camp away from roads and buildings, and respect the natural environment.

The remote and rugged nature of the Loch Ericht area makes it a haven for wildlife. Red Deer are a very common sight on the hillsides. If you're lucky, you might also spot birds of prey like ospreys and golden eagles soaring above the loch and the surrounding peaks.

Dalwhinnie itself is quite small, but nearby villages like Newtonmore and Kingussie offer several options. You'll find traditional pubs and cozy cafes there, perfect for a rewarding meal or a warm drink after a day in the mountains.