Allt na Crìche

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Lose yourself in Allt na Criche

If you're travelling north from Fort Augustus this is your first chance to get out into the forests overlooking Loch Ness. The trail follows the Allt na Crìche burn, with its charming waterfall, through mixed birch and pine woods and rises steeply to a series of viewpoints and benches. Take a rest and admire the vast watery expanse of Loch Ness and the solid stone towers of Fort Augustus Abbey.

Take a look at our guide map to the Great Glen (PDF 5.8MB) to explore Allt na Criche and other forests in this stunning area.

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Life’s essentials

The nearest public toilets and places to eat are in Fort Augustus, about one mile (1.6 km) away.

Walking trails

Allt na Crìche Trail

An invigorating climb up the cascades of the Allt na Crìche burn is rewarded with some marvellous views over Loch Ness.

Firm gravel surface, with some earth sections that are narrow, rocky and muddy in places. Long steep slopes. Includes several sections of boardwalk and some steps.

1 ¾ miles /
2.9 km
Allow
1 hour

More information...

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The extraordinary views over Loch Ness include Loch Ness's only island – tiny Cherry Island (or Eilean Muireach; Murdoch's Island). It may seem natural but it's actually the remains of a crannog – an artificial mound built from wood and stone that once had a castle on it.

Cycling trails

Mountain biking trails

Go further

From Allt na Crìche Trail you can join up with Scotland's fourth longest walking route - the Great Glen Way, which stretches from Fort William in the west to the city of Inverness. The section which passes by Allt na Crìche includes a small waterfall and the attractive Allt na Crìche burn.

Contact: Inverness, Ross and Skye Forest District

Address: Tower Road, Smithton, Inverness

Postcode: IV2 7NL

Telephone: 0300 067 6100

Email: invernessrossskye@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

How to get here

From the centre of Fort Augustus head north towards Inverness on the A82. You'll see the car park signposted on your left, about one mile (1.6 km) from the village. The car park is at grid reference NH 390 108.

Using SatNav?

PH32 4BL is the nearest postcode, a little before you reach the car park heading north on the A82.

Public transport

The Inverness to Fort William bus service stops in Fort Augustus, about one mile (1.6 km) from the start of the trails. See Traveline Scotland for details of bus services.

Nearby places

There are many superb trails and viewpoints near Loch Ness and along the Great Glen, including three long distance walking, cycling and boating routes between Inverness and Fort William. Explore other Forests of the Great Glen for nearby forest trails.

The Caledonian Canal follows the Great Glen and is a wonderful place for walking, boating and fishing.

Old Military Road

Step back in time on the Old Military Road which lies 2 miles to the south west. Walk in the footsteps of Highland cattle drovers and soldiers on this historical route that stretches 12km/7 miles from Glenmoriston to Fort Augustus. There’s plenty of wildlife to spot along the way too, from black grouse and crested tit, to pine marten and foxes.