Watersports
The National Park is home to pristine rivers and lochs and many of these spots are popular places for wild swimming, canoeing and stand up paddleboarding. Remember these are shared spaces with wildlife and anglers too, so always be respectful, considerate and give wildlife space.
To do this, we ask that you:
- Give wildlife space, and don’t paddle or swim directly towards birds and avoid nesting areas such as islands or bays with vegetation. When birds are disturbed, they use up valuable energy reserves and may leave eggs or chicks vulnerable to being eaten.
- Some lochs have zoned conservation areas or seasonal restrictions to protect wildlife, please follow any local signage and guidance from site staff.
- Be friendly to other water users such as anglers and ensure you get their attention and follow their direction as to which way to pass.
- Take care not to damage vegetation or banks when you get in and out of the water and ensure you have parked respectfully and are not blocking any gates or access tracks.
- Stay safe because the water can be cold and weather conditions change quickly here. Go with a friend and always wear a buoyancy aid for water sports.
- Don’t use motorised watercraft including e-foils, e-paddleboard motors, trolling motors etc without permission from the relevant landowner, as these are excluded from access rights.
Water safety code
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.
The Paddlers Code
Learn more about paddling responsibly
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, 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.