Loch Morlich to Ryvoan Pass

At a Glance

Distance

8.0 km (5.0 miles)

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

2 hr 30 min

Walk Type

Forest, Lake, Woodland

Route Type

Circular

Off Lead Potential

High

Livestock Risk

None

Facilities

Cafe, toilets, shop and water tap at Glenmore Visitor Centre; nothing at the bothy itself.

Parking

Large pay and display car parks at Glenmore Visitor Centre and Loch Morlich beach, rarely full outside peak summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Loch Morlich to Ryvoan Pass dog friendly?

  This is one of the most dog friendly walks in the Cairngorms, earning a 9/10 rating on Wildpack Collective. The paths are wide and paw friendly, there is almost no road walking, and the route avoids domestic livestock fields entirely. Dogs can even swim at Loch Morlich's sandy beach when it is quiet, making it a genuinely rewarding day out for dogs of any age.

• Can dogs be off lead at Loch Morlich to Ryvoan Pass?

  Much of the route is low risk and well suited to off-lead walking, but a reliable recall is important near Ryvoan, where free-ranging reindeer sometimes graze the higher ground. It is also worth keeping an eye on dogs near Loch Morlich beach in summer, when stand-up paddleboards can be out on the water. Outside those situations, this is a relaxed and largely stress-free walk for owners.

• What should I know before visiting Loch Morlich to Ryvoan Pass with my dog?

  The walk starts from Glenmore, where you will find large pay and display car parks, toilets, a cafe, a shop, and a water tap at the Visitor Centre — everything you need before heading out. The route itself is mostly flat and easy to follow through ancient Caledonian pines, past the striking emerald lochan An Lochan Uaine, and on to the historic Ryvoan Bothy. Note that there are no facilities at the bothy itself, so stock up on water at the start.

Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich beach car park

57.1675, -3.7016