Hayfield

Ancient pine trees, dragonflies and wood ants

Hayfield is a quiet place with a charming trail past ancient pine trees, where dragonflies flash across forest pools.

However, come when a sporting event is on - a 24 hour run or a husky race, maybe - and it becomes a hub of activity with great viewpoints for all the action.

Walking trails

Glenmore Forest Park route card (PDF)

Walking

Pine Knoll Trail

Walk beneath the towering old pine trees, where wood ants build their nests and dragonflies dart about beneath the canopy.

Firm gravel and earth surface throughout. Some loose and uneven sections, and occasional muddy patches after rain. Generally flat with a few moderate slopes and one short flight of steps.

1 ¼ miles / 2.2 km

Allow ¾ hour

More information

Sparkling dragonflies hatch in forest pools along this trail: look out for them in summer. On dry slopes, crowds of busy wood ants build their nests.

Facilities and access

Walking

Parking (charge)

Picnic area

Public toilets are available 24 hours at Loch Morlich Beach car park (Easter- 31 October) and in Glenmore village (year round).

No camping is allowed within the car park area. Fires and barbecues are not permitted. For more information on best practice in the outdoors, visit the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Car parking information

Payment options: coin or RingGo

Tickets bought at any FLS machine in the Glenmore Forest Park are valid in all our other car parks in Glenmore (not Glenmore Visitor Centre). The charges to park at Hayfield are:

• £2 for up to 1 hour
• £3 for up to 3 hours
• £4 for all day (vehicles up to 7 seats)
• £12 for minibus or coach all day 
• Blue Badge holders park for free. Please display your badge clearly

Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates. Nearby car parks with free parking can be found in our local forest list without the £ symbol. 

Annual parking pass available:

Available in advance by downloading the relevant application form and emailing to the Regional Office. Please read our Annual Pass terms and conditions before applying.

More parking info

Getting here

From the roundabout at the south end of Aviemore follow the signs for 'The Cairngorms' for 6½ miles. About a ½ mile after Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Centre, a large grassy space opens up on your right. The car park for Hayfield is at the far end of this, just before the snow gates.

Using SatNav?

PH22 1RB is the postcode for the Cairngorm ski centre, a few miles beyond Hayfield.

Public transport

Buses between Aviemore and the Cairngorm ski centre pass Hayfield. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions