The best walks and hikes around Loch Sealbanach
4.4
(575)
3,059
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking around Loch Sealbanach takes you through the remote and rugged landscape of Glen Cannich in the Scottish Highlands. The region is characterized by a chain of natural lochs fed by the River Cannich, with routes crossing heather-clad slopes and boggy ground. The network of walking routes near Loch Sealbanach offers a mix of gentle loch-side paths and more demanding ascents up nearby hills.
Best hiking trails around Loch Sealbanach
- The most popular hiking route is Sgòrr na Diollaid from…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.6
(8)
144
hikers
25.3km
09:23
1,360m
1,370m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(19)
54
hikers
13.5km
03:54
350m
350m
Hike the moderate 8.4-mile Abhainn Gleann nam Fiadh & Loch Affric loop, exploring ancient pinewoods and stunning loch views in Glen Affric.
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4.8
(5)
47
hikers
15.3km
05:26
860m
860m
Hike the difficult Tom a' Choinich Loop, a 9.5-mile route in Glen Affric with 2808 feet of gain and panoramic mountain views.
5.0
(3)
30
hikers
7.53km
02:23
620m
620m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
11.9km
05:26
850m
850m
Hike the challenging Sgurr Fuar-thuill from Glen Strathfarrar, covering 7.4 miles with 2778 feet of elevation gain for stunning views.
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Tips from the Community
To conclude the tour and realize the 18km done
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Plenty of parking and picnic spots here. The viewpoint is a very short walk and, there are other rights of way through the glen. From here there are also Munro that can be walked in to.
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Tom a' Chòinich is a munro at 1,112 m. The summit is accessed along an awesome rocky ridge, it's steep and feels amazing but it's not actually technical. Good effort if you run the whole way though!
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Glen Affric Lodge was built from pine and granite in the 1860's. It's used by the Glen Affric Estate as exclusive accommodation. You can stay here and be catered for, but as you can probably imagine it's very expensive.
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Nice stepped waterfall on the tributary that runs under the trail and into the Abhainn Gleann nam Fiadh. You'll normally pass it on the way up and down Tom a' Chòinich. Good place for a breather!
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Pay tons of money to go in or admire from outside for free.
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Sgòrr na Diollaid is a Corbett (818 m) with a fine rocky summit and great views in all directions. There aren't really any good or easy trails to follow, but most people walk in from the south and normally go back the same way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hikes around Loch Sealbanach?
Yes, while the region is known for its rugged terrain, there are easier options suitable for families. The Dog Falls Trail from Glen Affric is a short, gentle walk of about 2.1 miles (3.3 km) through the forest, which is great for younger children. For a slightly longer but still manageable outing, consider the Glen Affric viewpoint & Dog Falls loop, which offers rewarding views for a modest effort.
Can I take my dog on the trails near Loch Sealbanach?
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails, but the terrain requires them to be fit and accustomed to rough ground. Keep in mind that this is an area with livestock and sensitive wildlife, so dogs should be kept under close control or on a lead at all times, especially during bird nesting and lambing seasons (typically spring and early summer).
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls?
Absolutely. The area around Glen Affric and Glen Cannich is home to some beautiful waterfalls. The Dog Falls and Coire Loch circuit is a popular easy hike that prominently features the falls. The River Cannich itself also has waterfalls like Eas Maol Mhairi and Eas an Fhithich, which can be seen when exploring the glen.
What are the trail conditions typically like?
The terrain around Loch Sealbanach is characteristic of the Scottish Highlands. Expect a mix of conditions, including rough, boggy ground, paths covered in extensive heather, and rocky sections. Trails can be indistinct in more remote areas. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential, as is careful navigation.
How do I get to the trailheads and is there parking?
Access to the area is via a minor public road that runs up Glen Cannich to the Mullardoch Dam. Parking is available near the dam, which serves as the starting point for many hikes, including those heading towards the Loch Mullardoch Munros. For trails in nearby Glen Affric, there are dedicated car parks, such as the one at Dog Falls.
Are there any challenging circular hikes?
Yes, the region offers excellent challenges for experienced hikers. The Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoin & Dog Falls loop is a moderate circular route of about 8.4 miles (13.5 km). For a significant challenge, the area is a gateway to the Loch Mullardoch Munros, which can be tackled as an epic and very demanding ridge-walk circuit for seasoned hillwalkers.
What should I pack for a hike in this area?
Given the remote and changeable nature of the Highlands, preparation is key. You should always carry:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- A map and compass (and know how to use them)
- A fully charged phone and a power bank
- Sufficient food and water
- Extra warm layers, hat, and gloves, regardless of the season
- Insect repellent for midges, especially in summer
How many hiking trails are available around Loch Sealbanach?
There are over 15 designated hiking routes to explore in and around the Loch Sealbanach area. These range from short, easy walks suitable for families to difficult, multi-hour ascents for experienced mountaineers, offering a wide variety of options to experience the wild beauty of Glen Cannich.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The remote nature of Glen Cannich makes it a good place for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for red deer on the hillsides. The wider region is also home to iconic Scottish species like golden eagles, ospreys, and pine martens. For more focused wildlife information, you can find itineraries on sites like Visit Cairngorms.
Are there any pubs or cafes nearby for after a hike?
The immediate area around Loch Sealbanach is very remote, with no pubs or cafes at the trailheads. You will need to drive back towards the village of Cannich or further towards Drumnadrochit to find hospitality options. It's best to bring all the food and drink you'll need for your hike with you.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Loch Sealbanach?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning, wild scenery and the sense of remoteness. The rewarding panoramic views from the summits and the beauty of the glens are common themes in reviews.
Are there any particularly scenic viewpoints I shouldn't miss?
The entire area is scenic, but for a specific viewpoint, the ascent of Sgòrr na Diollaid from Glen Cannich offers fantastic panoramic views over the surrounding glens and lochs. For those seeking dramatic landscapes further afield, the highly-rated Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve offers breathtaking views of a mile-long canyon and waterfalls from a Victorian suspension bridge.
Most popular routes around Loch Sealbanach
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