Dalwhinnie paths
Alert
Dalwhinnie from the Gaelic - meadow of the meeting place, refers to the meeting of two historically important cattle drovers' routes where drovers would stop to rest their cattle before beginning the often-difficult crossing over Drumochter pass.
The village lies at the head of Loch Ericht, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Whilst remote, the small hamlet is easily accesible, and with a year-round average temperature of just over six degrees has always prided itself offering a warm welcome to travellers.
There are four trails that take in the sights of Dalwhinnie; Loch Ericht and the surrounding mountains, the Coachan forest with its viewpoint offering stunning views and the picturesque pagoda-topped distillery.
Dalwhinnie from the Gaelic - meadow of the meeting place, refers to the meeting of two historically important cattle drovers' routes where drovers would stop to rest their cattle before beginning the often-difficult crossing over Drumochter pass.
The village lies at the head of Loch Ericht, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Whilst remote, the small hamlet is easily accesible, and with a year-round average temperature of just over six degrees has always prided itself offering a warm welcome to travellers.
There are four trails that take in the sights of Dalwhinnie; Loch Ericht and the surrounding mountains, the Coachan forest with its viewpoint offering stunning views and the picturesque pagoda-topped distillery.
Alert
Quick resources
Paths and trails
Need to know
Please note the Ben Alder level crossing at the end of station road is currently CLOSED to the public. This means a diversion to the railway underpass to the south, at Ben Alder cottages, is required to reach the start of the walks.
We hope you enjoy exploring the trails around Dalwhinnie, but please do so responsibly. The National Park is a special place with rare wildlife, some of which is sensitive to disturbance. You can help protect the local wildlife by following all signs and keeping dogs close by and on a lead where requested.
Towns and villages
Relevant alerts
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The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has issued a wildfire warning impacting parts of the National Park from Wednesday 13 August until Tuesday 19 August. If you are out and about in the Cairngorms National Park please observe the following guidance:
- Do not light any fire or barbecue.
- Always ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and take your litter (including glass) away with you.
- Enjoy the outdoors responsibly - most wildfires are caused by human activity.
- Stay alert - with dry vegetation and warm weather, fires can start easily, spread rapidly, and burn intensely.
- If you see a wildfire, dial 999.
For further updates on wildfire risk across Scotland, visit the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service website.
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The railway level crossing at Dalwhinnie – at the walkers car park NN 633 846 – has been closed by Network Rail. An alternative point to cross the railway is via the underpass to the south at the Ben Alder cottages (NN 634 841). More information.
- Dalwhinnie waymarked walks:
- the Loch Ericht Walk loop is no longer possible due to the level crossing closure
- to reach the start of the Forest Walk and Coachan Wood Viewpoint the above diversion to the railway underpass is required
- Dalwhinnie waymarked walks:
