Loch Morlich, located in Cairngorms National Park, is home to the UK’s highest beach and one of the most loved lochs in Scotland.
Whether you’re staying at Glenmore Campsite or just visiting for the day, a walk around Loch Morlich is a brilliant option if you’re looking for something not too challenging, yet still want fresh air and lovely views of the Cairngorm Mountains.
The 4-mile (6.4km) circular route is especially perfect on a snowy winter’s day, when higher routes aren’t accessible but you still want to get out and enjoy the landscape.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Loch Morlich Circular Walk
- Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
- Route type: Circular
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Terrain: Forest paths and lochside tracks
- Elevation: Minimal
- Best in winter: Yes – great low-level option
- Dog friendly: Yes (on lead)
- Start point: Loch Morlich Beach / Watersports Car Park
- Facilities nearby: Toilets at Glenmore Visitor Centre, café (seasonal)
Location
Loch Morlich is located just north of Aviemore, within the Cairngorms National Park, and is easily accessible by car.
Parking
There are a couple of paid car parks around the shores of Loch Morlich.
This route starts at the Loch Morlich Watersports Car Park, but you can also begin from:
- The other Loch Morlich car park, or
- Walking down from Glenmore Campsite if you’re staying there
📍 Sat Nav: Loch Morlich Watersports, PH22 1QY
Because the walk is circular, you can join the route at any point.
Winter Safety
IIn winter, paths around Loch Morlich can be icy or snow-covered. While this is a low-level walk, suitable footwear and warm layers are essential. Microspikes are recommended, as sections of the path can become icy or slippery. Always check the weather forecast before heading out and be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.
The Route
The route is well-marked and easy to follow. If you’re using your phone, make sure location services are turned on, or download the GPX file to use with your preferred walking app.
If you’d like to follow this guide step-by-step, start at Loch Morlich Beach near the Watersports Centre or Glenmore Campsite and walk clockwise, keeping an eye out for red marker posts along the way.
If you start from the Loch Morlich Car Park, begin at Step 6 below.
Step-by-Step Directions
1.
Starting at Loch Morlich Beach, look for a footpath leading into the woodland. Follow this path until you reach a junction.
2.
At the junction, take the path on your left-hand side, following the river. Shortly after, you’ll see a small footbridge on your right-hand side.
3.
Cross the footbridge and continue along the path, watching for the red marker posts. You’ll pass several paths branching off to both sides — stay on the main trail until you reach a crossroads.
4.
At the crossroads, turn right and continue following the path as it curves around the loch. Ignore smaller paths branching off to the left and continue until you reach a road bridge.
5.
Cross the road bridge, then turn right, taking the footpath that runs alongside the road until you reach Loch Morlich Car Park.
6.
From the car park, cross the road and take the footpath on your right-hand side, signposted for Glenmore Visitor Centre. Continue until you see a small path on your right leading to the car park and the Boathouse Café.
7.
Walk through the car park and back onto Loch Morlich Beach, where you’ll finish the walk.
Why This Walk Is Perfect in Winter
- ✔️ Flat and well-maintained paths
- ✔️ Sheltered forest sections
- ✔️ Stunning snowy mountain views
- ✔️ Ideal when higher routes aren’t safe
If you would like to be notified when any new travel guides goes live, straight to your inbox, please subscribe here:
(don’t forget to check your junkbox for the confirmation e-mail!)
Planning more winter walks in the Cairngorms?
Explore my other easy winter walking guides near Aviemore: Cairngorms National Park
