Pros & cons
PROS
- Striking green-turquoise water in ancient Caledonian pine woods
- Short, well-marked woodland walk from Glenmore
CONS
- Can be busy at peak times
- No toilets at the loch
Overview
An Lochan Uaine—better known as the Green Loch—is a small, jewel-toned loch tucked into Glenmore Forest. It’s one of those easy, high-reward stops: a gentle stroll leads to shockingly green water framed by Scots pines and a backdrop of the Ryvoan Pass. If you want a classic Cairngorms moment without a big hill day, this is it.
What You’ll See
Expect a vivid green loch rimmed by beaches of grit and stone, with reflections of the surrounding Caledonian pinewoods. On calm days the color really pops. It’s a peaceful spot to linger, snack, and snap photos before continuing up the pass.
Getting There & The Walk
Trails are obvious and well signposted from the Glenmore side. Most people park at the Glenmore Visitor Centre and follow the forestry tracks to the loch on an easy, family-friendly path. There’s also a tiny pullout by an entry gate that sometimes has space, but it fills fast. Plan on roughly 20–40 minutes each way, depending on your start point and pace.
Folklore & Geology
Local lore says the loch is green because fairies washed their clothes here—romantic, sure, and it fits the setting. The down-to-earth explanation is reflections and natural pigments in the water. Geologically, it’s a classic small glacial lochan nestled in a sheltered hollow.
Wildlife
The surrounding ancient pinewoods are good for spotting forest wildlife—keep your eyes peeled for birds flitting through the canopy and, if you’re lucky, a red squirrel. Move quietly and you’ll see more.
Swimming Notes
People do swim here, but the water is cold year-round. Be prepared for a brisk dip, and know that leeches are occasionally reported—no big deal, just something to be aware of.
Extend Your Outing
If you’ve got energy, carry on up the Ryvoan Pass for bigger views and a more satisfying mini-adventure. Ryvoan Bothy sits further up the glen and makes a nice turning point before looping back.
Best Time to Visit
Go early or late in the day for softer light, calmer water (better reflections), and fewer people. Weekdays are quieter than sunny weekends. There are no on-site facilities, so sort restrooms and supplies at Glenmore before you set off.
Where it is
57.0614, -3.7171Tips for Lochan Uaine
- 01If the tiny pullout is full, use the larger Glenmore car park.
- 02Arrive early or later in the day to beat the crowds and wind.
- 03Continue past the loch into Ryvoan Pass for wider views and Ryvoan Bothy.
- 04If you plan to swim, expect cold water and occasional leeches.
- 05Pack layers and a waterproof—weather flips quickly in the glen.
Amenities
Near Lochan Uaine
All places →All trails →
0.4 mi awaySgor an Lochain UaineRemote Munro with vast views and a tiny green lochan
0.5 mi awayCairn ToulRemote 4,236‑ft Munro with huge corries and big-day viewsScenic Viewpoint
1.2 mi awayBraeriachThird-highest peak with wild corries and a vast, wind-scoured plateauScenic Viewpoint
1.8 mi awayCairn LochanWind-scoured corrie rim with wild views and alpine wildlife
5.3 mi awayCairn Gorm via Fiacaill a' Choire ChaisRocky ridge to Cairn Gorm with huge corrie views and quick high accessChallenging · 8.5 mi · 6 hr
5.3 mi awayBen Macdui via Cairngorm PlateauA big, bleak, brilliant plateau push to Scotland’s second-highest peakChallenging · 12.5 mi · 5.5 hr
5.3 mi awayBeinn Mheadhoin via Loch AvonRemote tor-crowned Munro via the wild Loch Avon and Shelter StoneChallenging · 18 mi · 11 hr
5.3 mi awayFiacaill Coire an t-Sneachda RidgeAiry granite ridge scramble above the Northern CorriesChallenging · 6 mi · 5 hr
