Glencharnoch Walk

Glencharnoch Walk is a waymarked circuit through the pines on Carrbridge’s western edge. The complete route from Station Road is about 0.57 mile (0.9 km): it follows a short access path to the circuit and retraces that stretch on the way back. The marked route is often rounded to half a mile. Allow about 30 minutes. It’s a small wander for the woodland and carvings, not a substantial hike.

Several marked paths meet around the wood. Follow the green markers for Glencharnoch; the yellow Ellan Wood and red Railway Wood routes are separate walks. The Glencharnoch path is firm gravel and mostly flat, with a few short moderate slopes. Dogs are welcome; keep them under control around wildlife and follow any signs asking for a lead.

Wooden sculptures and carved seats are dotted along the path. The bench on the knoll is a good place to stop and look back over the surrounding pines. This is old Strathspey pinewood country: Scots pine and birch dominate the canopy, and red squirrels and crested tits live in the wood. Glencharnoch is glossed as “Glen of the heroes.”

The Ellan Wood car park off Station Road serves the walk. A surfaced path of about 150 metres leads from the rear of the lot into the wood. If you’d rather park in Carrbridge, the village community car park is about a five-minute walk away and has accessible public toilets.