Sutherland's Grove

Soaring fir trees, a rocky gorge, waterfalls and stunning views

Marvel at the mighty fir trees of Sutherland’s Grove, the oldest of which were planted in 1870, with more added in 1921 to commemorate Lord John Donald Sutherland, one of the founders of the Forestry Commission. Some tower 53 metres (174 feet) high. As you push deeper into this vast forest, you will find more ancient oaks and Scots pines. The trails follow the gorge of the Abhainn Teithilburn, whose curiously-sculpted rocks create entrancing waterfalls.

Walking trails

Sutherland's Grove route card (PDF)

Walking

Giant Fir Trail

A lovely shady meander through soaring Douglas firs and beside the burn – be sure to bring a picnic. Look out for our very own lightning tree struck in 2020. The powerful scar can be seen the full length of the tree stem.

A wide, firm surface. Generally flat with short gentle gradients.

¼ miles / 0.3 km

Allow
¼ hours

More information

Look out for the stone memorial, just off the path, that dedicates this atmospheric grove to Lord Sutherland of the Forestry Commission. Listen for woodland birds in the canopy and see if you can spot plump dippers bobbing beside the burn.

Walking

Gorge Trail

Experience babbling burns and powerful waterfalls within the shelter of giant trees. This trail awakens the senses and captures the highlights of this forest.

A varied route with, some steep, rough and rocky sections. Can be narrow in places. Often wet and muddy after rain.

¾ miles / 1.3 km

Allow
¾ hour

More information

Listen for birds singing in the trees.

Walking

Troll Trail

Explore the woods a bit further and meet the troll who lives beside the footbridge above the gorge. 

Varied with some fairly steep, rough and rocky sections. Can be narrow in places. Often wet and muddy after rain. One bridge with a steep narrow flight of steps.

1 ¾ miles / 3.0 km

Allow
1¼ hours

More information

This trail is a great place to spot red squirrels.

Activities

Explore further

If you're feeling adventurous, head further into this lovely woodland on foot or by bike to find Glen Dubh reservoir and enjoy fantastic views over the Firth of Lorne and its islands. Ordnance Survey maps Explorer 376: Oban & North Lorn and Landranger 49: Oban & East Mull cover the forest roads.

Facilities and access

Walking

Parking (charge)

All ability trails

Viewpoint

Picnic area

There is a small shop, a petrol station and a seasonal café in Benderloch to the south, and public toilets, a shop and places to eat and drink at Port Appin to the north.

Car parking information

The charges to park at this forest car park are:

• £1 for up to 1 hour – all vehicles
• £3 for all day
• Blue Badge holders park free. Please display your Blue Badge clearly.

Payment can be made using RingGo.

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 Forest Search, marked as a 'P' without the £ symbol.

Annual parking pass available:

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

More about parking

Accessibility

Getting here

Sutherland’s Grove is on the east side of the A828 just north of Barcaldine. Look for our sign to the car park about 350 yards north of the village school and campsite.

Using SatNav?

PA37 1SQ is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

There are regular buses between Oban and Fort William that stop in Barcaldine. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions