The best running trails around Altyre Woods

Altyre Woods offers a wide selection of over 85 running routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. The network includes everything from easy, gentle loops to more challenging paths with moderate elevation gains.

You'll primarily find soft forest tracks, which are ideal for jogging as they provide a more forgiving surface than roads. The terrain includes gentle slopes through mixed woodlands, but some routes also feature short, steeper inclines. Sections of the former Dava Way railway line offer relatively flat and historically interesting paths.

Yes, Altyre Woods has several routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed jog. For example, the Loch of Blairs – Loch of Blairs loop from Forres is a moderate 3.4-mile path that circles the tranquil Loch of Blairs, offering a mix of woodland and waterside scenery with gentle terrain.

Absolutely. Many of the routes in Altyre Woods are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the Sanguahar Loch loop from Lower Rafford, a 3.8-mile trail through mixed woodlands and past the loch.

The routes in Altyre Woods are rich with points of interest. You might encounter the impressive Divie Viaduct, the dramatic Randolph's Leap where the River Findhorn flows through rocky outcrops, or the historic Dallas Dhu Distillery. Tranquil spots like Loch Romach and the Loch of Blairs, with its restored boathouse, also provide beautiful scenery. Additionally, you can find historical elements like the Scurry Pool Bridge and an old viewing tower.

Yes, many of the trails in Altyre Woods are dog-friendly, making it a great place to run with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife or other visitors, and to follow any local signage regarding leash requirements.

Yes, you can find routes that feature waterfalls. The Sanquhar Loch Waterfall – Sanquhar Loch loop from Forres is a great option, offering a 3.9-mile run that includes views of a waterfall near Sanquhar Loch.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from 4 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscape of mixed forests and tranquil river valleys, the soft forest tracks that are easy on the joints, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels. The scenic beauty and historical points of interest also contribute to a highly enjoyable experience.

Yes, there are various parking options available around Altyre Woods, often located near popular trailheads or access points. Specific parking details can usually be found on individual route pages on komoot or local information boards.

For more experienced runners looking for a longer challenge, the Dallas Dhu Distillery – Dallas Dhu Distillery loop from Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery is an excellent choice. This 7.6-mile (12.2 km) trail features varied forest paths and views of the historic distillery, offering a substantial workout.

Altyre Woods is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular for running. In spring, the woodlands burst with new growth, while autumn offers stunning foliage colors. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and even winter can be enjoyable with appropriate gear, though some paths might be muddy or icy.

While Altyre Woods itself is primarily a natural area, the nearby town of Forres offers various cafes, pubs, and shops where you can find refreshments before or after your run. Some routes, like those near the Dallas Dhu Distillery, might also offer facilities nearby.