Craigellachie National Nature Reserve
Discover enchanting birch woodlands and panoramic Cairngorms views on this accessible reserve near Aviemore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant colors, mild weather
Craigellachie National Nature Reserve
Best Time
Vibrant colors, mild weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover enchanting birch woodlands and panoramic Cairngorms views on this accessible reserve near Aviemore.
"Fantastic walk to the summit with great views over Aviemore!"
Use Navigation Apps
AllTrails is helpful for routes, especially to the summit. :iphone:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be varied; good shoes are essential for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Craigellachie Summit Viewpoint
Summit of Craigellachie Hill
Panoramic 360-degree views of Cairngorms National Park and the surrounding landscape. A rewarding climb!
Birch Woodland Trails
Throughout the reserve
Wander through enchanting birch forests, offering a peaceful and picturesque walking experience.
Lochans and Wildlife
Ponds and water bodies
Discover serene lochans, often dotted with lily pads, and spot local wildlife like ducks, frogs, and herons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Views & Fewer Crowds
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Use Navigation Apps
AllTrails is helpful for routes, especially to the summit. :iphone:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be varied; good shoes are essential for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Scotland's weather is unpredictable; layers are key. :cloud:
Start from Aviemore
Walk from Aviemore train station or youth hostel for a scenic approach. :train2:
Tips
from all over the internet
Use Navigation Apps
AllTrails is helpful for routes, especially to the summit. :iphone:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be varied; good shoes are essential for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for All Weather
Scotland's weather is unpredictable; layers are key. :cloud:
Start from Aviemore
Walk from Aviemore train station or youth hostel for a scenic approach. :train2:
Look for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for frogs, ducklings, and herons, especially near water. :duck:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Craigellachie National Nature Reserve for its beautiful woodland walks and rewarding summit views. Many appreciate the well-signed trails and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. While generally well-maintained, some suggest using navigation apps for added certainty on routes.
"Great place for a walk! Signed relatively well, but AllTrails is helpful to make sure you don’t take the wrong route."
Michal Brichacek
"Fantastic location for a wander round the nature reserve. I took a detour to the summit of Craigellachie Hill, approach from the second lochan, up the crags and down again from the north descent."
Gill Cairney
"Gorgeous walks and plenty routes to choose from. The lily pads are beginning to bloom in the ponds and there are tiny froglets hopping underfoot almost everywhere at this time of year. The ducklings are venturing a bit further from mum and we even saw a lizard basking on the rocks near the water. The heron is obviously feeding well here too!"
Vicky Dunbar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can walk from Aviemore train station or the youth hostel, which takes about an hour uphill to reach the reserve. 
Parking is available near the youth hostel, which serves as a good starting point for many trails.
While cycling is not explicitly mentioned in most visitor guides, the focus is on walking and hiking. Stick to designated paths.
Yes, Aviemore is well-connected by train, and the reserve is within walking distance from the town center.
One popular route involves approaching from the second lochan, ascending via the crags, and descending from the north.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Craigellachie National Nature Reserve is free. It's a public access area within the Cairngorms National Park.
The reserve is open year-round, from dawn till dusk. There are no set opening or closing times.
There is no entrance fee to explore Craigellachie National Nature Reserve.
Yes, you can visit at any time, but visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment of the views.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, stay on marked paths, and take all litter with them.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There are various walking routes, from gentle woodland strolls to more challenging hikes up to the summit for panoramic views.
You might spot ducks, frogs, lily pads, lizards, and herons, especially near the lochans.
The climb to the summit is not overly challenging but offers a good workout, with a rewarding view at the top.
There are no specific facilities within the reserve itself. Aviemore, located nearby, offers cafes and restrooms.
Simply wander along the well-marked paths, taking in the serene atmosphere and the unique beauty of the birch trees.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers stunning panoramic views, while the birch woodlands and lochans provide beautiful, intimate shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during spring and autumn, offer the best light for landscape photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the Cairngorms National Park Authority for specific guidelines before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
Focus on the interplay of light and shadow in the birch trees, the reflections in the lochans, and the expansive mountain vistas from the summit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity for kids to discover nature, spot small wildlife like frogs and ducklings, and enjoy the open spaces.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Hikers
Using a navigation app like AllTrails can be beneficial for exploring different routes and ensuring you stay on track, especially if you plan to venture off the most beaten paths.
📸 Nature Photographers
The summit views are a must-capture, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offering expansive vistas of the Cairngorms.
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for any wildlife encounters. The changing seasons also present unique photographic opportunities, from spring blooms to autumn colors. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Summit Views
For those seeking a specific route, one suggestion involves approaching from the second lochan, ascending via the crags, and then descending from the north.
Pro Tip: Aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit to catch the best light for photography and potentially avoid the midday crowds.
The Enchanting Birch Woodlands
These woodlands are not just visually appealing; they are teeming with life. During certain times of the year, you might encounter tiny froglets hopping underfoot, ducklings venturing out from their mothers, and even lizards basking on rocks near the water.
Insider Advice: Take your time to explore the various paths within the woodland. The gentle slopes and the rustling leaves create a calming atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Visitors have reported seeing tiny froglets hopping around, especially during spring and summer, and even lizards basking on rocks near the water's edge.
Community Tip: Keep your eyes peeled and your movements slow when near the water bodies to increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit