Loch Uaine, also known as the Green Loch, is one of the most iconic and accessible walks in the Cairngorms National Park, near Aviemore.
This scenic circular walk from Glenmore Visitor Centre is perfect for families, beginner hikers, and anyone looking for an unforgettable short hike in the Cairngorms — especially in winter.
Best Route to Loch Uaine
I’ve completed this walk twice in winter conditions. On our first visit, the loch was fully visible, while on our second visit it was completely snowed over — offering two very different but equally magical experiences.
There are many different routes you can take to reach Loch Uaine, but this is personally my favourite!
This route is a lovely circular walk of just under 4.5 miles (7.2km), starting and finishing at the Glenmore Visitor Centre. It’s family-friendly and not too strenuous, and on a clear day, you’re rewarded with incredible views across the Cairngorm Mountains.
📌 Quick Facts: Loch Uaine Walk
- 📍 Location: Glenmore, near Aviemore
- 🥾 Route Type: Circular
- 📏 Distance: Just under 4.5 miles / 7.2 km
- ⏱️ Time: 2–3 hours (allow longer in winter or for photography)
- ⬆️ Elevation: Gentle, gradual climbs
- ⚡ Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Yes (extra care in winter)
- 🐕 Dogs: Allowed (keep under close control)
- 🚗 Start / Finish: Glenmore Visitor Centre
- 🅿️ Parking: Paid parking available
Winter Walking Advice
Please note: walking this route in winter may require microspikes.
The path down to the loch can become icy or covered in compacted snow, making it difficult—and unsafe—to descend without extra grip.
If conditions are like this, you will struggle to safely get down to the loch without them. Always carry microspikes in winter conditions, even if the rest of the walk feels manageable.
Here’s an affiliate link to the pair I have:https://amzn.to/4qPL6fJ
Location of Loch Uaine
Loch Uaine is located in Glenmore, just north of Aviemore, within the Cairngorms National Park. It’s easily accessible and makes a great short walk for those staying in or around Aviemore.
Parking for Loch Uaine Walk
- Paid parking is available at the Glenmore Visitor Centre
- Sat Nav: Glenmore, Aviemore, PH22 1QU
If you’re staying at Glenmore Campsite, you can walk straight across to the start of the trail—just like we did.
Loch Uaine Step-by-Step Route (Glenmore Circular)
Follow the map as you walk and you shouldn’t get lost. Make sure your phone’s location services are turned on so you can see exactly where you are. Alternatively, you can download the GPX file and use it with your preferred route tracker.
Walk this route clockwise.
1.
Start at the Glenmore Visitor Centre and take the footpath off to your right-hand side, signposted Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.
2.
As you reach the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, look for a forest track leading uphill on your left-hand side.
If you’re unsure at all, check the map.
3.
Take the forest track uphill. Follow it as it curves around, passing a house on your left. Shortly after, you’ll see a track heading off to your right.
4.
Continue straight on, ignoring the right-hand turn. Follow the track uphill into the forest. Eventually, the wide track narrows into a footpath. Follow this until you reach a crossroads.
5.
At the crossroads, cross straight over—you should see Loch Uaine directly in front of you. Head down towards the loch.
6.
After enjoying the view from this angle, head back up to the crossroads. Take the path off to your right-hand side. Very shortly, you’ll see a small path on your right that leads back down to the loch, offering a different and equally beautiful viewpoint.
7.
Once you’ve finished exploring the loch, head back up the small path and turn right onto the main footpath.
8.
Continue along the footpath, passing the earlier crossroads, and keep going until you reach a junction with a wooden signpost.
9.
Take the footpath slightly to your left, signposted Visitor Centre, and follow it until you reach another junction.
10.
At the next junction, continue straight ahead, again signposted Visitor Centre. Shortly after, you’ll reach Glenmore Lodge.
11.
Walk past Glenmore Lodge and take the footpath that runs parallel to the road. After a short distance, you’ll see the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre on your right.
12.
Continue past the Reindeer Centre, rejoining the path from the start of the walk, which leads you back to the Glenmore Visitor Centre.
🌲 Is the Loch Uaine Walk Worth It?
Absolutely! Whether you’re visiting in summer or experiencing the Cairngorms in winter, the Loch Uaine walk from Glenmore is one of the most rewarding short hikes near Aviemore. With forest trails, mountain views, and the striking Green Loch itself, it’s a walk that offers something special in every season — and one we’d happily return to again!
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Planning more winter walks in the Cairngorms?
Explore my other easy winter walking guides near Aviemore: Cairngorms National Park
