Aviemore Walks: 7 Best & Easiest Walking Trails in Aviemore
Looking for the best Aviemore walks? Then you’ve come to the right place - I spent a month exploring this Cairngorms mountain town and this guide has you covered with the best walks in Aviemore.
Of all the best things to do in Aviemore, getting outdoors is a must - and there’re heaps of incredible Aviemore walks to choose from.
Situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, the landscape surrounding Aviemore is breathtaking and wild, a place of ancient forests and sparkling lochs. There are incredible trails which take you into the heart of this spectacular landscape, from easy forest trails to beautiful lochside circuits.
And whilst the hikes in the surrounding Cairngorm Mountains offer longer and challenging days, the advantage of choosing an easier walk near Aviemore is that you have more time for other things: like a warming hot chocolate in one of the towns best cafes & coffee shops.
Plus, you need far less experience, gear, or energy for short Aviemore walks than a big mountain hike.
So, in this short guide I’m sharing the very best and easiest Aviemore walks. Short trails that are easy-to-follow yet rewarding AND have stunning views.
Ready to start an Aviemore walk? Let’s go!
Best Short Aviemore Walks
There are dozens of routes around Aviemore to suit all levels of experience, from forest walks to mountain hikes. These are some of the best Aviemore walks, suitable for all levels.
Whilst they don’t need any special gear, I always recommend good hiking boots, warm layers, and a waterproof.
1. Aviemore Orbital
Best for: an easy rural walk
Time: 2-hours
This is a gentle walk is a circuit around the outskirts of Aviemore, following the River Spey.
This route is well signposted and so easy to follow, with some lovely views over the town. It’s also a good way to escape the hustle and bustle of the high street, without wandering too far from town.
This Aviemore walk takes around 2-hours and is on path for the most part, although there is one section by the river that can be muddy.
Afterwards, be sure to warm up in one of Aviemore’s excellent pubs or cafes.
Find the route here.
2. Old Logging Way
Best for: a forest walk
Time: variable
Find the start of the Old Logging Road in the centre of Aviemore, near the Old Bridge Inn.
Though the start of this walk is by the road side, it quickly disappears into the forests of Rothiemurchus. Surrounded by tall trees and heather, it’s an easy gravel trail that gently undulates through the forest.
The trail itself is around 5km long one-way and this is an out-and-back trail - so walk as long as you like, then simply turn back for Aviemore. Alternatively, extend your walk and join the trails to Loch Morlich, Ryvoan Bothy, or the Lodge Trail.
Being completely off-road, the Old Logging Way is also a popular cycle route, especially with families.
Though there’s few facilities on the trail, towards the start The Barn cafe offers excellent coffee and cake. Whilst the Glenmore Visitor Centre also has a cafe and toilets, but is much further along the route.
3. Loch Morlich
Best for: a lochside wander
Time: 2-hours
This classic circuit around Loch Morlich has some of the nicest views in the area, and it’s easily one of the best Aviemore walks.
Fringed by beaches and partly through the forest, it’s a wonderful and easy trail.
Plus, there’s the gorgeous backdrop of Cairngorms mountains and their often-snow-capped peaks to marvel at. You’ll walk for around 2-hours on an easily walkable gravel path, before the circuit brings you back to the car park.
Along the way stop at the sandy beach, go for a wild swim, or have a paddle.
Do note that parking at Loch Morlich can be busy at weekends or during the summer months, so arrive early to guarantee a spot. Parking charges are £2 for up to 1 hour and £4 for all day (if you’re walking the loop, I recommend all day). Pay by coins or on the Ringo app.
If the car park is full, drive to the next park up (Hayfield), which is a short 20-minute walk back to Loch Morlich.
Nearby you’ll find the Pine Martin Bar for hot chocolates, coffee, and lunch.
Find the route here.
4. Loch an Eilein
Best for: beautiful lochside walk
Time: 2-hours
The Aviemore walk around Loch An Eilein is a popular one, and for good reason.
Surrounded by ancient pine forest and overlooking the incredibly beautiful loch, it is a serene circuit with stunning mountain views.
Start at the large car park (£4.50 per car or £1.50 per person) and follow the trail around the loch, soaking in the views, and glimpsing the ruined castle from amidst the trees.
It’s a dramatic spot with breathtaking scenery and a must on any Aviemore trip.
If the weather is right be sure to bring a picnic. Though there is a small gift shop selling ice-cream, cold drinks, and coffee. Handily, there’s also a loo.
Find the route here.
5. Ryvoan Bothy and Lochan Uaine
Best for: wild views and famous lochans
Time: 3-hours
The circuit through the forest to Ryvoan Bothy is possibly one of the very best Aviemore walks.
If you’re looking for wild Cairngorm views combined with a forest trail, this Aviemore walk is the perfect option. Plus, this route visits the famous green waters of Lochan Uaine.
The walk start point is located just outside of town, where a car park has signposts for the route. You’ll walk for around three hours, but half way through is where you’ll see the green waters of Lochan Uaine, a beautiful small loch with the most vibrant colour.
From there, follow the trail to Ryvoan Bothy and gorgeous views over the Cairngorms mountains.
Tip / This Aviemore walk is mainly a gentle gravel or forest trail, but there is one steep and tricky section after Ryvoan Bothy. To avoid this, simply return on the path.
Find the route here.
6. Uath Lochans, Feshiebridge
Best for: classic Highland views
Time: 2-hours
A short drive from Aviemore leads to Glen Feshie, where you’ll find the impossibly beautiful Uath Lochans.
The walk around these four small lochans is an easy one, before the short climb to Farleitter Crag reveals one of the most sublime views in the Highlands. Personally, this is my favourite walk near Aviemore - it is gorgeous.
Park at the free Forestry Commission car park, where you’ll see a small picnic area. The start of the walk is a short 200m along the trail.
A quiet spot, I’ve rarely seen many other walkers on the trail, yet its pretty spot at any time of year. The autumn colours are especially gorgeous, but in winter this Aviemore walk is extra magical.
Afterwards, stop at the very cute Old Post Office cafe in the village of Kincraig for coffee, cake, or lunch.
Find the route here.
7. Craigellachie Nature Reserve
Best for: short hike with big views
Time: 3-hours
If you’re looking for an excuse to wear your hiking boots without a trip to the mountains, then Craigellachie Nature Reserve is the perfect Aviemore walk for you.
Towering over the town, you’ll find the entrance to the trail at the start of town.
An easy-going uphill trail with a clear path, the summit has the most gorgeous views over town and the Cairngorms in the distance. Along the way, spot several lochans, beautiful birch woods, steep crags, and in autumn, the beautiful changing colours.
Find the route here.
Aviemore Walks: Wrap Up
One of the best things to do in this Highlands town is get outdoors, and these Aviemore walks are all amazing trails.
If you’re looking for an easy but rewarding walk, I urge you to strap on your walking shoes and get outdoors.
Each walk on this list as a clear trail and easy-going path throughout. And, luckily, all end near an amazing cafe or coffee shop!
Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried any of these Aviemore walks and which are your favourite.
