Important

The recent storm has affected many of our destinations; it will take us some time to assess the extent of the damage. We are prioritising tree clearance work based on immediate danger and/or access issues. If you are visiting please take extra care and report any specific concerns to your local regional office.

Puck’s Glen safety warning

Friday, 03 October 2025

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is reminding visitors that due to ongoing safety concerns, members of the public should continue to avoid visiting Puck’s Glen Gorge.

Badly damaged during Storm Eowyn and suffering subsequent damage during storm Floris, the Gorge has been closed since January 2025.

The impact of the storms on very large, mature trees has  resulted in large volumes of windblow, with fallen trees blocking the path, causing significant damage to the footpath including erosion, undercutting and higher risk of landslips, which has been made worse by extreme rainfall.

Gill Walker, Area Visitor Services Manager for Forestry and Land Scotland’s Central Region team, said;

“We understand that people are upset that this much loved gorge has been off limits for such a long time. We share that feeling. It’s heartbreaking to see what is such a magical and beautiful place in its current condition.

“The size and precarious lie of the fallen trees, the current path condition and slope stability, together with access issues means that planning any clear up works is going to be extremely complex and costly.”

Dealing with windblow is time-consuming and dangerous. Felled trees, hanging trees and even trees that are still standing can all be unstable after a major storm.

FLS is currently working on evaluating options for next steps to establish what options are viable for the future, long term safe management of the site.

Gill added;

“We would strongly urge everyone to use their common sense, think about their own safety and to please stick to the forest paths that remain open, avoiding the gorge path for the time being.”

Notes to Editors

  1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
  2. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS