4.8
(78)
357
hikers
Two Lochs Trail
02:02
7.79km
60m
Hiking
Hike the Two Lochs Trail, a moderate 4.8-mile loop in Cairngorms National Park, exploring Loch Garten and Loch Mallachie through ancient for
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
50 m
Loch Garten Nature Centre
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.76 km
Bog Woodland Observation Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.44 km
Benches Overlooking Loch Mallachie
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
6.62 km
Loch Garten
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
7.79 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.88 km
495 m
369 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
7.34 km
331 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 6 May
12°C
4°C
37 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the terrain like on this trail?
The trail largely features high-quality, wide, and smooth paths, making it generally easy for most hikers. However, be aware that a short section along the shore of Loch Mallachie can be quite bumpy due to extensive tree roots. If you extend your walk towards the RSPB Nature Centre from the main car park, you might encounter a path with loose gravel and a moderately steep downhill slope.
Is the Two Lochs Trail suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, this trail is an excellent option for families and beginners. Its generally smooth and wide paths are suitable for off-road pushchairs. Children will particularly enjoy the small beach at Loch Garten for playing.
What wildlife can I expect to see along the route?
The Abernethy Forest is rich in wildlife. In summer, you might spot ospreys fishing, redstarts, tree pipits, and spotted flycatchers. Winter brings pink-footed geese, greylag geese, and whooper swans. Red squirrels are common, and if you're lucky, you might even see crested tits, crossbills, or the elusive capercaillie. The nearby RSPB Osprey Centre is a great place to learn more, especially in spring when ospreys are nesting.
Where can I park to access the trail?
The main car park provides convenient access to the trail. From there, you can easily reach the main loop and extend your walk towards the RSPB Nature Centre.
Is this trail dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Two Lochs Trail. However, as it passes through a nature reserve with abundant wildlife, please keep your dog on a lead to protect the local fauna and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The trail is beautiful year-round. Summer is ideal for spotting ospreys and other migratory birds, while winter offers a chance to see pink-footed geese, greylag geese, and whooper swans. The ancient 'granny pine trees' and loch reflections are stunning in any season.
Do I need any permits or need to pay an entrance fee for the trail or Cairngorms National Park?
No, you do not need a permit or to pay an entrance fee to hike the Two Lochs Trail or to enter Cairngorms National Park. However, some specific attractions or facilities within the park, like the Loch Garten Nature Centre, may have their own charges or opening times.
What can I see along the route?
The trail takes you through the beautiful Abernethy Forest, past the tranquil waters of Loch Garten and Loch Mallachie. You'll find viewpoints like the Bog Woodland Observation Point and Benches Overlooking Loch Mallachie. The Loch Garten Nature Centre is also a key highlight, especially for birdwatching.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the NCN National Route 79 and the Speyside Way, offering opportunities to extend your hike if you wish.
Is wild swimming possible in the lochs?
Yes, wild swimming is an option in both Loch Garten and Loch Mallachie. Always exercise caution, be aware of water temperatures, and follow local safety guidelines when swimming in open water.
How long does it take to hike the main loop?
The main Two Lochs Trail loop is approximately 2.75 km (1.7 miles) long. While the core trail is easy, the full route as described on komoot is about 7.8 km and typically takes around 2 hours to complete at a moderate hiking pace.
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Trail Reviews
A peaceful evening ramble through a forest and skirting two scenic lakes. 🌲
Beautiful walk through protected Scottish coniferous forest in Abernethy Nature Reserve. The trails near Loch Garten tend to be relatively busy, but this less well-known route was surprisingly quiet. On this day with heavy clouds, a pleasant alternative to a walk (without a view) at height 👍🏻
A walk mainly through forests and along two lakes. We also wanted to visit the RSPB visitor center at Loch Garten, which is currently being restored. We started from the Garten Woods car park on the B970.
This is such a pretty loop. Loved all the swampy shorelines that were frozen over, allowing to walk into areas usually too boggy to enter. Gorgeous day out.