Uath Lochans

Uath Lochans is one of the greatest areas for a walk in the Aviemore area. Found a short distance from Loch Insh, the views over the Strathspey Valley are spectacular.

This amazing area was carved by the Strathspey Glacier, which was about 1 kilometre thick, 20,000 years ago! This glacier was one of the largest in Scotland during the last ice age and one of the fastest, moving at 30 meters per year. The lochans this area is famous for were left when large blocks of ice were left behind by the glacier and then melted. These lochans are also called kettle holes.

Our visit to Uath Lochans

Despite visiting the Aviemore area for many years, my wife and I had never been to Uath Lochans. Little did we know the treat we would be in for when we visited on a mild September Sunday morning.

Uath Lochans Forestry Car Park

There is a good-sized car park for the walk. Built amongst the trees, it has many alcoves to choose from. The car park itself is quite picturesque and located near one of the lochans from which this area gets its name.

Available routes at Uath Lochans

Two routes are available at Uath Lochans:

Uath Lochans Trail - 1.5 miles / 1 hour

This walk is a flat path which leads around the nearest lochan. We decided to choose the other trail on this visit but plan to try this trail next time we visit.

Farleitter Crag Trail - 2.5 miles / 1.5 hours

This trail is the longer route, but it takes you up to the main attraction of this location—the stunning views over the Strathspey Valley. We chose this route on this visit as it includes at least three amazing viewpoints over the valley.

Starting our Walk

From the car park, an information board gives you everything you need to know about your walk. We followed the red route - Farleitter Crag Trail - on this visit, walking anti-clockwise.

Top tip: One thing to note is that if you just want to get to the views as quickly as possible, follow the red path clockwise. It ascends to the best viewpoint first. So, if you just want a quick walk, you can go to the first viewpoint and then head back to the car park. The whole walk is worthwhile, though.

The start of the walk is marked with red and white marker posts. We turned right along the red-only route. Well-maintained paths lead you through different areas of the walk, some densely forested and some sadly deforested along forestry tracks.

Mushrooms & Baby Frogs

We noticed an abundance of mushrooms all along the path side of the red route, some of which I had never seen before, like the purple brittlegills. We also spotted many baby frogs on this route, even on the very high paths! I'm not sure where they were going, considering they must have spawned in the lochans below.

The Viewpoints

Eventually, the forest path begins to ascend. It's not too hard a walk, but it definitely got our hearts beating! The first viewpoint we came to was distinguished by a large boulder and a bench. The trees here obscure the view a little bit, but it was a nice taster of what was the come. Near this viewpoint was a modern stone cairn created by walkers.

The path undulates along the side of the Glen Feshie Hills, offering superb views as you go, with glimpses of the view framed by the trees.

The last main viewpoint was our favourite; this one has a large flat stone and is the area that most people associate with Uath Lochans. This spot offers great views of the whole valley and over the smaller lochans below.

From here, the path winds down and rejoins the white route, which you can choose to follow around the four small lochs. On this occasion, we just returned to the car park.

FAQs on Uath Lochans

How do you pronounce "Uath Lochans"?

It is pronounced "oo-ah lochans" – meaning the hawthorn small lochs.

Are the Uath Lochans trails suitable for children?

There are some dangerous sections at the viewpoints if they were to run in the wrong direction. You should keep small children close; older children will be OK; just keep in mind there are some huge drops with no fencing.

Are there facilities at Uath Lochans?

There is only a car park, no toilets, camping spots, or a cafe. Check out the Loch Insh Outdoor Centre nearby if you need toilets or refreshments.

Where can I visit after Uath Lochans?

I highly recommend Loch An Eilean and Loch Morlich. Loch Insh is nearby and has great facilities and outdoor activities. There is also a cafe at Loch Insh if you fancy some refreshments. If you are of the adventurous type, G2 Outdoors offers fantastic ziplines a short drive away. The Aviemore area, in general, has a lot to offer.

What wildlife can be seen at Uath Lochans?

We kept our eyes open but didn't spot any of the elusive red squirrels, we did see plenty of birds and baby frogs though!

Key Information

• Uath Lochans is a short walk found near Loch Insh, south of Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands.

• The walks offer routes around the lochans and routes that take in many spectacular views.

• Located within the Cairngorms National Park.

• The nearest toilets and cafe are at Loch Insh Outdoor Centre.

Conclusion

Uath Lochans must be one of the best short walks in the Aviemore area. Relaxing forest walks with small lochs, dense forests and stunning viewpoints. Highly recommended for a short or mid-range walk while in the Aviemore/Kingussie area.