Killiecrankie

The basics

Visitors can learn about the battle and the area’s flora and fauna at the visitor center, which is cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Several waymarked walks that depart from the center lead to Soldier’s Leap, where legend holds that a Jacobite soldier leaped across the river gorge to escape government troops.

Other activities on offer include the Highland Fling bungee jump, which plunges 130 feet (40 meters) into the gorge, as well as kayaking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. A 3-mile (5-kilometer) section of the Killiecrankie Walk leaves Pitlochry next to the town’s fish ladder and heads via viaducts, forest walks, and tunnels to the dramatic viewing point at Soldier’s Leap.

Things to know before you go

• The site and visitor center are free to visit, but there is a small parking charge.

• The lower reaches of Killiecrankie Pass are steep in places, and many sections have steps. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

• The café at Killiecrankie Visitor Centre offers meals and snacks.

How to get there

If you travel by car, take the A9 for 4 miles (6.5 kilometers) north from Pitlochry. If using public transportation, you can travel by train to Pitlochry Railway Station, then by bus number 82 in the direction of Struan to the Village Hall, a few minutes walk to Killiecrankie Visitor Center.

When to get there

The visitor center is open year-round, daily from morning until late afternoon (early evening in summer). It is closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. Killiecrankie is a great place to see Scotland’s changing seasons. The site blazes with color in fall, when you may also spot deer and elusive red squirrels. Wrens and dippers can be seen in winter; colorful wildflowers bloom in spring, and summer brings flycatchers, warblers, bats, and butterflies.

Tay Forest Park

Between Killliecrankie and Pitlochry, Tay Forest Park is a network of forests home to some of Scotland’s tallest trees. The Queen’s View Visitor Centre provides lovely views over Loch Tummel; Allean Forest is home to a ruined Pictish ring fort; and Faskally offers leisurely woodland strolls and is known for its annual sound and light show, “The Enchanted Forest.”