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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
410 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.6 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-4.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Wildcat Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Wildcat Trail is a fun family-friendly walking route in Cairngorms National Park that will lead you around the village of Newtonmore. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill to traverse the rugged hills to the north, before looping around the village along the winding banks of the River Spey. This is a fantastic activity to do if you are looking to take in the beauty of the highlands without much in the way of difficulty.

Route Description for The Wildcat Trail

If you are wanting to explore the beauty of Cairngorms National Park but don’t want to commit to a longer and more challenging adventure, the Wildcat Trail is a great compromise that offers some beautiful views and fun terrain, all without straying too far from town.

Setting out from the car park in the heart of Newtonmore, you will follow Glen road to the northwest to leave the village behind, before breaking off to the right to explore the forests surrounding Craggan. Heading to the east, you will traverse the hilly terrain until you reach the banks of Allt Lairaidh, at which point you will follow the water southeast until it meets the River Spey.

Here, you will meander along the winding banks of the river to the southwest, looping around Newtonmore and the picturesque countryside surrounding it until you arrive at a fork in the river where the River Spey and River Calder converge. Keep right along the Calder and follow it north, taking in the beauty of the riverside setting before arriving at the edge of Glenbanchor Road. Turning right here, you will follow the road to the southeast to arrive back at the car park where you began.

Getting to the The Wildcat Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Wildcat Trail can be found at the car park on Glen Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

The Wildcat Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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