Caledonian Canal and Dochgarroch Lochs

An 8 mile walk from the edge of Inverness following the River Ness and Caledonian Canal towards Loch Ness, across the locks at Dochgarroch and returning on the opposite bank. The start time is to allow for members to travel by train from Glasgow or Edinburgh. The start location is a 20 minute walk along the River Ness from the centre. Why not make a weekend of it and join Mark on the Sunday at Aldourie Castle Garden (Aldourie Castle Garden - Scottish Open Gardens | OutdoorLads) and the Inverness Social at the Eden Court Cinema / Theatre bar (Inverness Social | OutdoorLads). If you need accommodation, Inverness has lots. The Bught Caravan and Camping site is very close to the start of this walk (invernesscaravanpark.com). Or there are lots of hotel, B&B and hostel options too.

This is a flat walk! We will be sandwiched between the River Ness and Caledonian Canal, with views of the hills and woodland close to the northern end of Loch Ness.

This is a popular route for walkers, cyclists, joggers and more, and we will almost certainly see plenty of boats on the canal. Built by Thomas Telford, this route provided a crucial short-cut from the North Sea to the Irish Sea for shipping, avoiding treacherous waters around the north and west coasts of Scotland. Nowadays, it is a mecca for pleasure boats and canoeists.

There is a good cafe and ice cream parlour at Dochgarroch, as well as basic facilities (loos, coffee bar, if open) at the start.

There is an option for a short additional walk at the end to go to the top of Cemetery Hill (for those that crave a couple of contours) with some fine woodland and some great views, especially to the north, over part of the city, the Kessock Bridge, the Moray Firth and the Black Isle.

Photos: taken by Rob Mitchell and used with permission.

Dogs are welcome on this walk.

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