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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
710 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.7 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Loch Brandy Trail

Craggy Shores
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Loch Brandy Trail is a fantastic walking route within the rugged expanse of Cairngorms National Park that will take you uphill to visit two elevated lakes and several others further downhill. While out on the trail, you will climb up the steep hillside to visit Loch Brandy before traversing Green Hill to reach Loch Wharral. A steep descent along Rough Craig will bring you to several smaller lakes on the way to the trailhead. If you enjoy sweeping scenic views, then this is a great trail to explore in Cairngorms.

Route Description for Loch Brandy Trail

The Loch Brandy Trail is a steep adventure that will require several short but intense climbs up the rugged hillside. Be sure that your physical fitness is adequate for such a journey and be sure to wear sturdy walking boots with good ankle support. Additionally, remember to wear layers and pack a few extra articles of clothing, as weather conditions in the area can change rapidly.

While the trail may be steep, it is also extremely beautiful, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and locks that are set within the undulating landscape of Cairngorms National Park. Enjoy them, as you work your way uphill to the summit of Green Hill by working your way past Loch Brandy before descending along the calm waters of Loch Wharral and the rugged terrain of Rough Craig. This is a superb adventure if you are up for the challenge.

Setting out from the car park, follow the lane to the northeast for 250ft and pick up the Lock Brandy Trail branching off to the right. Follow it past the remainder of the lodges and cross over the Burn of Loch Brandy, making your way out of the tree cover to climb up the steep hillside. Although it will be physically taxing, take some time along your climb to appreciate the beautiful views surrounding you as you work your way uphill.

After 2.1 km of walking from the point where you crossed the burn, you will arrive at an intersection in the trail next to Loch Brandy. Take the path on the left to begin the steepest portion of the walk that will bring you on top of the hills surrounding the scenic lake. After trudging your way to the top, you will enjoy a sweeping view across Cairngorms National Park that includes Easter Ballock to the north, as well as Rough Craig and the serene surface of Loch Brandy to the south.

Reaching a junction in the trail overlooking the lake, keep right and continue on for 1.7 km, passing straight through a junction atop Green Hill to arrive at another overlooking Loch Wharral. Head to the right here and begin to make your way down the hillside, enjoying the views across the water as you keep to the right along the trail and eventually arrive at Rough Craig. Take some time to enjoy the views before continuing downhill to the southeast, working through a series of switchbacks for the next 2.0 km. Continue downhill as the trail bends to the northwest, leading you past several smaller lochs before following the road back to the trailhead where you began your adventure on the Loch Brandy Trail.

Other Great Walks in Cairngorms National Park

Check out our trail guides to Ben Magdui, Loch Muick, Ben Vrackie, Loch an Eilein, and the Mount Keen Walk. Or see all of our Cairngorms walks.

Insider Hints for Loch Brandy Trail

  • Be sure to wear proper walking boots with good ankle support, as portions of this trail are very steep and rugged.
  • Make sure to bring extra layers, including a water-resistant one, as the weather here can change quite rapidly.

Getting to the Loch Brandy Trail Trailhead

To reach the trailhead for the Loch Brandy Trail from Kirriemuir, head northeast on Cortachy Road/B955 for 7.9mi and continue straight on B955 for another 6.3mi. Make a left here to arrive at the car park.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Loch Brandy Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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