Thursday, 31 Oct 2024
Did you know that Scotland is home to ten of the 17 bat species living and breeding in the UK? …
The heavy rains this winter have caused some small washout on the all abilities trail. The routes are still fully passable for walkers, but we would advise that they are only suitable for 'off road' style wheelchairs in present condition. Repairs are planned for this trail. Unfortunately they can not be done until autumn, after endangered ground nesting birds have finished their breeding season. There are several wheelchair accessible routes, managed by the Highland Council, in this area.
The Aldie Burn winds lazily through this interesting forest on its way to the sea. Once, the burn powered several watermills and supplied water to the people of Tain; now it bubbles dreamily beside easy woodland trails. This is a forest for all ages, a place of tall conifers and tranquil pine, where capercaillie and pine marten hide in secret groves, and colourful dragonflies hover on gossamer wings.
A gentle stroll to the salmon-shaped pond, where you can try pond dipping or enjoy a picnic by the burn.
Wide, firm gravel surface throughout. Short moderate slopes.
Allow ½ hour
A lovely walk up Glen Aldie. Stop to watch dragonflies along the burn then meander back through gnarled Scots pines and colourful heather.
Wide, smooth gravel surface throughout. Some moderate slopes. Includes two bridges, one 1.0m wide.
Allow 1 hour
There's an extensive network of un-waymarked forest roads here which are great fun to explore on foot, bike or horseback. They’re well-used, so watch out for walkers, cyclists, horses and occasional vehicles. Be especially careful near the car park.
Tain Runners organise training runs in the forest to suit all levels, as well as the annual Tain Hill Trail Race. To find out more about running in the forest contact Tain Runners.
Horse riders are welcome to ride the forest roads here. Please unload horse-boxes in the dedicated space to the right of the car park where there is direct access to the main trail.
If you're going off the main trails remember to tell someone where you are going and take some water and food, as well as a map.
You'll find public toilets, shops and eating places in Tain, 4 miles (6.4 km) away.
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
Aldie Burn is 2 ½ miles (4 km) west of Tain in Easter Ross, not far from the A9. Halfway round the Tain bypass you'll see brown signs to 'Aldie Burn forest walk'. Turn off the A9 here (signposted to Scotsburn) and follow the road for 1 ¾ miles (2.8 km) until you see the Aldie Burn forest walk sign. Turn right and follow the forest road to the car park.
IV19 1PL is the nearest postcode, just after turning off the A9.
Sorry, there is no public transport to Aldie Burn.
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Climb to Pulpit Rock for panoramic views across to Tarbet Nes
Follow thousands of years of history along this ancient drove road
Towering pines and a bed of heather ten minutes from the beach