Aldie Burn

Gentle strolls among the pines around Aldie Burn

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.

Walking trails

Aldie Burn route card (PDF)

Walking

Pond Trail

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.

¾ miles / 1.2 km

Allow ½ hour

Walking

Aldie Burn Trail

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, narrowest point 1 metre wide.

1 ¾ miles / 2.8 km

Allow 1 hour

Activities

Adventure in Aldie Burn

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.

Facilities and access

All ability trails

Easy-access facilities

Horse riding

Parking

Picnic area

Walking

You'll find public toilets, shops and eating places in Tain, 4 miles (6.4 km) away.

Accessibility

Car parking information

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.

More about parking

Getting here

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.

Using SatNav?

IV19 1PL is the nearest postcode, just after turning off the A9.

Public transport

Sorry, there is no public transport to Aldie Burn.

Get directions