Outdoor access

As the access authority for the Cairngorms National Park, the Park Authority is responsible for upholding public access rights, facilitating access and promoting the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 established a public right of access to most land and water in Scotland for recreational purposes. The Act also conferred a number of duties and powers on the access authority.

Publicising the Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Scottish access rights allow non-motorised recreational activities on most land and water. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code explains how to exercise access rights responsibly and must be followed when enjoying the outdoors.

Upholding access rights

The access authority has a duty to uphold access rights which involves asserting, protecting, keeping open and free from obstruction any route or waterway. The Access team works with land managers to resolve issues and provide support should irresponsible access occur.

Establishing a local access forum

The Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum was established in 2005 and meets several times a year. The forum’s role is to advise the access authority and others on matters related to outdoor access.

Find out more about the Local Outdoor Access Forum and its current members.

Core paths planning

Core paths were identified and designated to provide a network of routes that give the public sufficient reasonable access throughout their area. The Cairngorms Core Paths Plan was produced in 2010 and a revision published in 2015. A review is being undertaken in 2025-26, find out more about the review process and contribute to the consultation here.

The Park Authority works to ensure the core paths are fit for purpose, signposted at either end and barrier free, and when necessary, undertakes essential maintenance.

Find out more about the Core Paths Plan

Other duties

The access authority also has powers to exempt land from access rights for short periods (eg large events), make bylaws and path orders, undertake measures on safety grounds and to enter land.

Report an access issue or a path obstruction