Freshwater
Known as the arteries of the landscape, freshwater systems act as a vital connector across the landscapes of the National Park. From rivers to lochs to burns, our waterways offer a range of unique habitats in the Cairngorms, joining up peatlands, woodlands, flood plains, grasslands and more to provide the lifeblood that many species of wildlife rely on for survival.
It isn’t just the quantity of freshwater that matters, it’s the quality. The National Park is home to some of the cleanest and most pristine waters in Europe, something that must be actively preserved and enhanced.
A network of rivers called the Spey, Dee, Don, Esk and Tay support an enormous range of species of birds, mammals and fish. From fast flowing rivers to trickling burns and clearwater lochs, the variety of habitats offer vital refuge to species like the northern damselfly, goldeneye, and famously the Atlantic salmon.
In a changing climate, the freshwater systems of the Cairngorms are increasingly important. The reintroduction of beavers by the Park Authority to the Cairngorms in December 2023 after an absence of more than 400 years marked a significant step in efforts to restore and re-naturalise the freshwater environments of the area. Known as ecosystem engineers, beavers have an ability to change the environment around them, slowing water flows and improving water quality, with many knock on benefits for other species, like insects who make homes in the deadwood, and the bats and birds who eat the insects!
Alert
Featured
The new fire byelaw
How the Cairngorms National Park Authority and its partners are tackling the threat of wildfires, including details on the recreational fire management byelaw, in place from 1 April to 30 September each year.
Wildlife
The Cairngorms National Park is home to a quarter of the UK’s rare and endangered species. Its rich habitats are a haven for an array of wildlife, from iconic birds to elusive plants and flowers.
What we do
From pioneering conservation projects to community engagement and active travel, find out more about the range of work happening across the National Park.
As rich and important as the freshwater landscapes of the Cairngorms are in ecological terms, they also hold huge significance for the people of the area, past and present. Steeped in folklore, from the faeries said to wash their clothes in An Lochan Uaine (green loch) giving it a vibrant emerald colour, to the kelpies of Loch Muick preparing to entice strangers into the depths of the water, the National Park’s lochs have long been the inspiration for songs and stories that are still told today.
On stormy days these waters are steely grey, dark and choppy, but where the wind has dropped, and the sun shines brightly, the views of Caledonian forest reflected in the clear waters of the National Park are unrivalled. These landscapes offer sanctuary and peace to those who need it, thrill and adventure to the outdoor enthusiasts drawn to the water, and, vitally, the support system that nature and indeed all of us, depends on.
Relevant alerts
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There is an ongoing wildfire situation at Glenmore within the Cairngorms National Park. Click here for all the latest. We would encourage members of the public to follow current guidance and be aware that the situation may change.
Due to the this wildfire incident, the following paths and routes are closed:
- All the paths around Loch Morlich, Glenmore and Badaguish are closed.
- The Ryvoan pass is closed, this includes all access to the Green Lochan (Lochan Uaine).
- Routes providing access to Cairngorm Mountain, the Northern Corries, Meall A’Bhuachaille, Strath Nethy and Bynack more should be avoided.
- The Abernethy Forest area to the south of Forest Lodge and towards Ryvoan bothy is closed.
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SEPA have confirmed the presence of blue-green algae/cyanobacteria in Loch Morlich.
It is advised not to enter or drink the water anywhere in Loch Morlich, or allow your pets to do so, until further notice. Contact with affected water can be harmful to people and animals.
Please:
- Avoid swimming, paddling, or entering the water.
- Keep dogs and other pets away from the loch and shoreline.
- Do not drink or use the water.
If you or your pet feel unwell after contact with the water, seek medical or veterinary advice immediately. Please follow all posted warning signs and guidance from local authorities.