The best running trails around Loch Ashie

There are over 100 dedicated running routes around Loch Ashie, offering a wide variety of options for different fitness levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these trails over 3,000 times.

The terrain around Loch Ashie is quite varied. You'll find accessible paths and mostly paved surfaces, but also wild moorland and some sections that can become boggy after rain. Appropriate footwear is recommended, especially for longer runs or after wet weather.

Yes, Loch Ashie offers several easy running routes. Approximately 20 of the available routes are classified as easy, making them suitable for any fitness level. These often feature relatively flat sections, such as the quiet road on the western side of the loch.

Absolutely. Many of the routes around Loch Ashie are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Loch Dùn Seilcheig – Loch a' Clachain loop from Loch a' Chlachain, a moderate 12.7 km trail offering fine views of the lochs and surrounding hills.

Loch Ashie is beautiful year-round, but late summer is particularly scenic with pretty heather in bloom. The exposed landscape means that extra layers and waterproofs are advisable, especially during cooler or wetter months. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Loch Ashie is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA), primarily known for being a significant gathering site for Slavonian grebes. You might also spot other wetland birds like tufted duck, mallard, and teal, and there's a chance of seeing deer. The routes also offer fine views across the water to the surrounding hills and wild moorland.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Loch Ashie has several difficult routes. For instance, the Descent Into Dores – Loch Dùn Seilcheig loop from Loch a' Chlachain is a difficult 22.8 km path with significant elevation gain, offering expansive views of the Highland landscape.

The running trails in Loch Ashie are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, scenic loch views, and the sense of adventure provided by the wild moorland.

Yes, for longer runs, consider trails like the Fair Haired Lads Pass – Picnic Area at Reelig Glen loop from Dores. This difficult route spans over 42 km with significant elevation, perfect for endurance training and exploring more of the Highland scenery.

While Loch Ashie itself offers stunning views, some routes in the wider area provide glimpses of the famous Loch Ness. For example, the Dores Beach – View of Loch Ness from Dores loop from Dores is a 20.4 km route that includes views of Loch Ness, starting from the village of Dores.

Elevation gain varies significantly across the routes. Easier trails might have minimal elevation, while more difficult ones, such as the View of Inverness Road – Scenic Uphill Switchbacks loop from Scaniport, can feature over 250 meters of ascent, providing a good workout with rewarding views.