Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit Walk

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Walking the Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit is an easy going experience in Cairngorms National Park that will take you along the banks of Allt na Feithe Duibhe to reach the green, clear waters of An Lochan Uaine. While out on the trail, you will climb gently along the lower slopes of Meall a’ Bhuachaille before descending the opposite side on a slightly more challenging path to reach the scenic shores of the lake. The natural beauty of the area and relatively easy nature of the trail make this a perfect half-day walk that is suitable for most outdoor enthusiasts.

Route Description for Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit Walk

The Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit Walk is a pretty relaxed experience overall; however, there is one stretch of the trail on the descent to An Lochan Uaine that features a small amount of steep and rugged terrain. Make sure to wear good walking shoes for the best support along the trail.

This one minor rough patch of trail aside, this is an amazing walk that will produce some amazing views of the surrounding Cairngorms landscape and will allow you to visit the emerald green waters of An Lochan Uaine - The Green Loch. If you are up for a bit of added adventure, try camping out for the weekend at the nearby Glenmore Campsite to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Setting out from the Glenmore Visitor Centre, head to the southwest along the track and pass through the gate, keeping left at the first fork in front of the Reindeer Centre. Reaching another fork in 470ft, bear right and follow it east to begin the gentle climb along the forested hillside. After 0.59mi, pass straight through the junction and continue on to the northeast as you traverse the lower slopes of Meall a’ Bhuachaille.

Enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding forests and hills, as you break free of the thick tree cover and make your way through a more sparsely populated stretch of woodland terrain on the descent towards An Lochan Uaine. This part of the walk is the most arduous, although it is still manageable for most walkers, so be sure to take your time as you descend the hillside. After crossing over Allt na Feithe Duibhe, you will arrive at the shores of An Lochan Uaine, with its peaceful green waters that contrast the rugged nature of the surrounding hills.

Continue heading north along the path for another 1.2 km, keeping left through the rugged terrain of the Ryvoan Pass until you reach the Ryvoan Bothy. After reaching the hut, take a few moments to relax and appreciate the beautiful Highland scenery before turning back to retrace your steps to the loch. Once you have reached the junction next to the picturesque An Lochan Uaine, continue straight through and make your way along the east bank of Allt na Feithe Duibhe, following it to the southwest for 1.8 km until you reach the Glenmore Lodge. Head through the gate and follow the track to the west for 1.2 km to arrive back at the starting point of your adventure.

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 Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit Walk

While the trail is fairly easy overall, the descent to the loch is slightly more challenging. Wear comfortable walking shoes for this adventure.
Pair this walk with a few days of camping at the nearby Glenmore Campsite to fully appreciate the beauty of the region.

Getting to the Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit Walk Trailhead

To reach the trailhead for the Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit Walk from the rail station in Aviemore, drive south on Grampian Road/B9152 for 0.8 km and take the first exit at the roundabout onto B970. After 2.7 km, continue straight and you will find the car park on the left in 6.8 km.