Loch Ericht Forest

Wood, Forest in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Loch Ericht Forest

Looking across Loch Ericht to Creag Dhubh from the Fara Creag Dhubh flanks part of the eastern side of the glaciated trench filled by Loch Ericht in this view from the rise up to Meall Cruaidh on the Fara. — Looking across Loch Ericht to Creag Dhubh from the Fara Credit: AlastairG

Loch Ericht Forest, located in Inverness-shire, Scotland, is a stunning woodland area that spans across a vast area of approximately 35,000 acres. Situated on the southern shores of Loch Ericht, this forest is a haven of natural beauty and tranquility.

The forest is primarily composed of native Scottish trees, including Scots pine, birch, and oak, which create a diverse and enchanting landscape. The woodland is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including deer, red squirrels, and a wide range of bird species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

The forest offers a network of well-maintained trails and paths, allowing visitors to explore the area and immerse themselves in its natural wonders. There are several viewpoints and picnic spots strategically placed throughout the forest, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding loch and mountains.

In addition to its natural beauty, Loch Ericht Forest also has historical significance. It was once part of the Caledonian Forest, which covered large parts of Scotland thousands of years ago. The forest is also home to remnants of ancient settlements and ruins, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the area.

Whether visitors are looking for a peaceful walk in nature, a chance to spot wildlife, or an opportunity to learn about Scotland's rich history, Loch Ericht Forest offers an unforgettable experience. With its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and historical significance, it is truly a gem of Inverness-shire.

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Loch Ericht Forest Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.894601/-4.321116 or Grid Reference NN5880. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Looking across Loch Ericht to Creag Dhubh from the Fara

Creag Dhubh flanks part of the eastern side of the glaciated trench filled by Loch Ericht in this view from the rise up to Meall Cruaidh on the Fara.

AlastairG

Unnamed top on the Fara ridge

A late snow patch barred the way across the unnamed top at 586819 on the Fara ridge. At its narrowest, the snow was about 18 feet wide. There is, of course, a gap towards the right end of the photo but it involved losing height which you just have to make up again and anyway, it's a bit more fun doing a bit of winter climbing! NN5982 : Retrospect north along the Fara ridge shows the view from the top, with the top of the snow patch visible.

AlastairG

Final dip on the south end of the Fara ridge

After almost four miles of excellent high level walking this shows the view from the top shown in NN5882 : Unnamed top on the Fara ridge. After the dip, the slope rises to Meall Cruaidh, only 13 feet lower than the camera location.

AlastairG

Moody Loch Ericht

At the point where the track to Culra starts to head inland. The lodge here is currently covered in scaffolding.

John Lucas

Gatekeeper's Lodge, Ben Alder Lodge

John Slater

Summit cairn, Meall Leac na Sguabaich

Pristine snow at this small cairn marking this 850m top to the west of its higher neighbour Meall Cruaidh. Beinn Bheoil (L) is just below cloud base, Ben Alder is partly obscured and the Bealach Dubh is shining white in the sun.

Jim Barton

Summit cairn, Meall Cruaidh

A fine view down Loch Ericht to Beinn Bheoil (1019m) in line with the cairn and the plateau of Ben Alder (1148m) further right.

Jim Barton

Summit cairn, Meall Cruaidh (2)

A view along the ridge to the 901m SW top on The Fara.

Jim Barton

At last the sun breaks through over Loch Ericht

I have not walked extensively in Scotland but I do have affection for the route from Dalwhinnie to Corrour, which is accessible by train at both ends, and so relieves the necessity of driving several hundred miles to get there. Quite simple really: a train from Aberystwyth to Euston; pick up the sleeper to Dalwhinnie; walk and camp somewhere to the west of the Bealach Dubh; walk to Corrour; train to Fort William, a meal and a pint or two at Cobbs Lounge Bar near the station; Sleeper to Crewe and thence home to Aber. Train fare of about £140 by booking ahead and with the benefit of a Senior Railcard. The walking route passes Culra Bothy, about 9½ miles from Dalwhinnie. I have never slept in the bothy, preferring to camp, but have happy memories of having brews and chats there whilst sheltering from the elements before the climb to the summit of the bealach. As reported on Geograph recently, the bothy is now officially closed due to asbestos contamination. I’m afraid that my health now prevents me from doing the full route from Dalwhinnie to Corrour but I did feel that I would like one last visit to the bothy in case it is to be demolished (and whilst I still could) – walking out from Dalwhinnie, overnight camp and then back to Dalwhinnie. I must pay tribute to my son-in-law who is an excellent walking companion and shares my love of wild places. He has accompanied me on several visits to the area and has shown remarkable patience whilst waiting for the old man to catch up!

John Lucas

The track beside Loch Ericht

En-route from Culra to Dalwhinnie.

John Lucas

Split in the path before Alder Lodge

The path splits here: the right hand path is steeper both on the ascent and descent. The lower path it seems is to avoid vehicles getting stuck in snow as it is mainly flat.

John Fairgrieve