Five places you can visit in the Cairngorms National Park right now

A loch with reeds and water lilies under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

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We know that many people are looking forward to visiting the Cairngorms National Park this year, and there are so many places to explore here in the UK’s largest National Park.

Although there are some routes within Glenmore and Abernethy that won’t be accessible for some time, we took a trip to some other nearby favourites that have something for everyone, from woodland walks to hidden lochs.

Alert

There is an ongoing wildfire situation in Glenmore and Strath Nethy within the Cairngorms National Park.

Learn more

by Rosalyn Watson

07 August 2026

Rosalyn coordinates communications activity ensuring it reaches the communities, groups and individuals we need to engage with for Cairngorms 2030.

Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

Situated on the edge of Aviemore, there are multiple routes that take you through a silver birch forest, a lochan home to damselflies and meadows of flowers and ferns. Eventually rising to a craggy summit, this route offers rewarding, picturesque views over the town and beyond to the Cairngorm mountains, Loch Alvie and Loch Insh.

Adam Alexander

Loch an Eilein

Filled with frogs and darting dragonflies, this magical place was formed thousands of years ago by giant blocks of ice from a melting glacier. With the option of a peaceful trail around the main lochans or a more challenging route up Farleitter Crag with stunning views over the whole area – it's well worth a visit.

Adam Alexander

Uath lochans

Filled with frogs and darting dragonflies, this magical place was formed thousands of years ago by giant blocks of ice from a melting glacier. With the option of a peaveful trail around the main lochans or a more challenging route up Farleitter Crag with stunning views over the whole area – it's well worth a visit.

Damian Shields

Creag Bheag

If you are looking for small hill walk, head to Creag Bheag, which towers over the town of Kingussie. With views that just get better and better, this circular route offers both paths through pine forests and stunning views over Loch Gynack and beyond.

James Stevens

Boat of Garten trails

There is wildlife galore here and with five different trails to choose from, including an all-abilities path, everyone can enjoy this special place. From majestic herons to scampering red squirrels, see who you can spot nestled in the trees or wading through the water - you might even be able to see an elusive osprey.

Rachel Connolly

If you are looking to go further afield, you can find more paths and trails to explore across the National Park here.

With the current closures at Glenmore and Abernethy, you can find more information about public access and a map of what trails can be accessed here. The map is kept as up to date as possible, but please always follow any onsite signs or directions from the emergency services, rangers and estate staff.

We don't yet know what started the wildfire in Glenmore and Strath Nethy, but we have all seen the devastation that fire can cause. The fire byelaw in place bans fires and barbecues between 1 April and 30 September in the National Park, but please help us to look after this place by ensuring cigarettes are fully extinguished and taking your litter (including glass) away with you. Let's protect this spectacular place for generations to come.

Find out more about visiting the Cairngorms National Park and plan your next adventure at VisitCairngorms.