The best walks and hikes around Loch Callater
4.7
(734)
5,891
hikers
74
hikes
Hiking around Loch Callater offers a variety of trails through the Scottish Highlands, characterized by open moorland, glens, and lochside paths. The landscape features rolling hills and higher peaks, providing diverse terrain for hikers. This area, including Glen Callater, is known for its remote feel and natural beauty, with routes often following ancient tracks and river valleys. The region provides opportunities for both shorter, accessible walks and longer, more challenging mountain ascents.
Best hiking trails around Loch Callater
- The most popular hiking route is Callater Stables Bothy – Loch Callater loop from Creag Phàdruig, a 5.0 miles (8.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours to complete. This circular walk offers views of the loch and passes the historic bothy.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Loch Callater – View of Loch Callater loop from Creag Phàdruig, a moderate 8.8 miles (14.2 km) path. This route provides expansive views of the loch and surrounding hills.
- Local hikers also love the Loch Callater and Jock's Road Loop, a 9.0 miles (14.6 km) trail leading through Glen Callater, often completed in about 4 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Loch Callater is defined by open moorland, river valleys, and lochside paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy hikes to more difficult mountain ascents.
- The routes in Loch Callater are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 5,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Loch Callater's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
8.00km
03:00
530m
530m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
25.4km
08:09
1,080m
1,080m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
hikers
14.2km
04:56
760m
760m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
136
hikers
14.6km
04:32
440m
440m
Embark on the Loch Callater and Jock's Road Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 9.0 miles (14.6 km) with an elevation gain of 1456 feet (444 metres). This journey typically takes around 4 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You will begin on a clear track following Callater Burn, which guides you into the expansive Glen Callater. As you progress, the scenery transforms, revealing the serene waters of Loch Callater nestled among rolling, heathery hills. The varied terrain provides a genuine sense of the Cairngorms' wild beauty, where you might even encounter local wildlife like deer.
When planning your visit, be aware that conditions on the trail can vary significantly. Sections beyond Loch Callater may be boggy and less defined, requiring careful footing. The high plateau is exposed to the elements, meaning you should prepare for strong winds and potentially fierce storms, especially during winter months. Good navigational skills are essential, as the path can become indistinct if visibility is poor or snow covers the ground.
This loop offers a unique opportunity to experience a historic part of Scotland within Cairngorms National Park. The route incorporates sections of Jock's Road, an ancient drovers' path used for centuries to move livestock across the challenging landscape. Following in the footsteps of past travelers, you gain insight into the region's heritage while surrounded by its natural grandeur.
4.3
(3)
69
hikers
29.1km
08:37
810m
810m
Embark on the Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop from Auchallater, a challenging 18.1-mile (29.1 km) hike that offers a true sense of the Scottish wilderness. This difficult route involves a significant 2643 feet (806 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 8 hours and 36 minutes to complete. As you ascend, you will encounter varied terrain, from tussocky grass and blaeberry to notoriously boggy ground and pathless sections on the high plateau. From Tolmount's summit, panoramic views stretch across the vast Mounth plateau and into Glen Callater, with distant snow-capped Cairngorms visible on clear days, while Tom Buidhe provides clear views towards Lochnagar and the White Mounth mountains.
Planning your visit requires good stamina due to the length and elevation. Navigation can be tricky, especially in poor visibility, because of vast, featureless sections of the plateau. While some ascents are gradual, the overall distance demands very good fitness. Winter ascents are possible but require experienced hikers equipped with four-season boots, an ice axe, and crampons. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions in the Cairngorms, as the mountain environment can be unforgiving.
This loop is a popular choice for Munro bagging, as both Tolmount (958 metres) and Tom Buidhe (957 metres) are Munros, often climbed together. The trail frequently incorporates sections of Jock's Road, an ancient and arduous drovers' path with significant historical importance regarding access rights in Scotland. Along Jock's Road, you might also find Davies's Stone, an emergency shelter marking a tragic event from 1959, which serves as a stark reminder of the serious nature of hiking in these mountains. This route offers an exhilarating sense of isolation on the expansive Mounth plateau.
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Other adventures around Loch Callater
Tips from the Community
Good bothy - there is a well equipped public toilet with sanitary towels and loo roll thankfully!
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Jock's Road (or Tolmounth) is a 22km footpath between Braemar and Glen Clova, via Glen Callater and Glen Doll. It may be named after Jock Winter, a shepherd who worked with the Scottish Right of Way Society. They challenged the local landowner and won the right-of-way for the historic drovers route. Note that some of this route is pathless, as it's quite boggy when ascending from Loch Callater.
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This stretches as far as I could see in both directions, right over the summit! Must have been some fights over this hill 🤣
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Who builds a wall up and over a Munro? Anyone else thinking of the Game of Thrones?
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Rocky section at top is straightforward - no scrambling required.
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Good camping ground on the side of the loch next to the Bothy
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Loch Callater?
There are over 70 hiking routes around Loch Callater, offering a wide range of options from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents. You'll find 23 easy, 34 moderate, and 17 difficult trails to explore.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly hikes in the Loch Callater area?
Yes, Loch Callater offers 23 easy routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed walk. These trails typically feature gentler terrain and shorter distances, allowing you to enjoy the lochside paths and glens without significant challenge.
What are the best times of year to hike around Loch Callater?
The best time to hike around Loch Callater is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, the area offers a unique beauty in winter for experienced hikers, though conditions can be challenging with snow and ice.
Are there any circular walks around Loch Callater?
Yes, several circular routes allow you to experience the diverse landscape. A popular moderate option is the Loch Callater and Jock's Road Loop, which covers about 14.6 km and takes around 4 hours 30 minutes, leading through Glen Callater.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Loch Callater?
Loch Callater is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially during lambing season (spring) and ground-nesting bird season (spring/summer). Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which advises keeping dogs on a lead near livestock and wildlife. Be aware that some routes may cross private land or nature reserves with specific restrictions.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options around Loch Callater?
While many routes involve open moorland, some shorter, easier trails can be suitable for families. Look for routes with less elevation gain and shorter distances. Always check the specific trail details for suitability based on your family's experience and the weather conditions.
Where can I find parking for hiking around Loch Callater?
Parking is typically available at the start of many popular trailheads, such as near Auchallater or Creag Phàdruig. These areas often serve as access points to Glen Callater and the loch. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as spaces can be limited in this remote area.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in Loch Callater?
Loch Callater, situated in the Scottish Highlands, is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot red deer, mountain hares, and various bird species, including red grouse and golden eagles. Keep an eye out for native flora adapted to the moorland environment.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Loch Callater area?
The Loch Callater area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the remote feel, the stunning views of the loch and surrounding hills, and the sense of tranquility found on the open moorland and ancient tracks.
Are there any challenging multi-day hikes or longer routes in the region?
Yes, for experienced hikers, there are more challenging and longer routes that can extend into multi-day adventures, often connecting with other parts of the Cairngorms National Park. An example of a difficult day hike is the Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop from Auchallater, covering over 29 km with significant elevation gain.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
Many trails offer expansive views of Loch Callater itself and the surrounding glens. For panoramic vistas, routes like Loch Callater – View of Loch Callater loop from Creag Phàdruig are designed to provide excellent vantage points over the loch and the rolling Highland landscape.
What is the typical duration for a moderate hike around Loch Callater?
Moderate hikes around Loch Callater can vary, but many take between 3 to 5 hours. For example, the Callater Stables Bothy – Loch Callater loop from Creag Phàdruig is a moderate 8 km trail that typically takes around 3 hours to complete.
Most popular routes around Loch Callater
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