Strathmashie Forest

The basics

Home to five trails that range from just .3 miles (.5 kilometers) up to 8 miles (12 kilometers) in distance, the forest is accessible to hikers of all experience levels, though the more advanced will want to take the Blackwood Walk up to Dùn dà Làmh: the ruins of a Pictish fort, accompanied by impressive views over the landscape.

The forest’s other highlights include Pattack Falls, while the shore of nearby Loch Laggan is home to the largest freshwater beach in the country. The park also attracts wildlife enthusiasts with its population of pine martens, grouse, and roe deer. Strathmashie is located within day-trip distance of Inverness, making it easy to plan an independent trip.

Things to know before you go

• Due to the uneven terrain, sturdy footwear is strongly recommended; it’s worth bringing waterproofs and other layers.

• If visiting in the spring and summer months, it’s wise to bring insect spray and cover limbs to protect against biting midges.

• If you’re after mountain biking trails, head to the Laggan Wolftrax Centre, which also hosts a café, bathrooms, and showers.

• Like everywhere in Cairngorms National Park, you should follow leave-no-trace principles.

• If you fancy a wee dram after your hiking, Strathmashie Forest is conveniently close to several Scotch distilleries, including Dalwhinnie, Speyside, Edradour, and Blair Athol.

How to get there

Strathmashie Forest is roughly 3 miles (5 kilometers) along the A86 from the village of Laggan. The nearest major hub is Inverness, some 56 miles (90 kilometers) north. If using public transit, take the train to Aviemore and transfer to the 39 bus to Laggan; local taxi services can connect you from there to the park.

When to get there

Strathmashie Forest is accessible year-round. Summer and fall are particularly popular times to visit when the park’s trails are likely to be most accessible. While it is open in the winter, the Highlands can experience heavy snow and inclement weather, and trails can close; be sure to consult the forecast and bring good winter gear.

Things to see in Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park—of which Strathmashie Forest is one small part—is the largest national park in the UK. If you wish to venture to its other highlights, popular stops include Blair Castle, Balmoral Estate, Ben Macdui (the tallest mountain in the Cairngorms range, in the center of the park), and dozens more lakes, beauty areas, castles, and other highlights.