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Linn of Quoich Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy /
Moderate Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
2h15 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
5km
Elevation gain
100m
Type of route
Loop
Maximum altitude
395 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
Slightly
Marked
No
Popularity
Low
Region
Cairngorms
Start point
57.00183, -3.45500
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

The Linn of Quoich hike takes you into the heart of Scotland's Cairngorms National Park. Follow the River Quoich as it cascades down spectacular rapids through narrow, rocky gorges. This peaceful circuit passes through a regenerating Caledonian pine forest before reaching a picturesque wooden bridge overlooking waterfalls and the famous "Punchbowl", a natural hole carved into the rock by water.

Though more challenging than the Linn of Dee hike, the Linn of Quoich offers the advantage of being less crowded while providing equally magnificent scenery.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Linn of Quoich Hike

Difficulties of the hike

The outbound route follows a wide, easy track. However, the return route along the river is more technical. The trail has been damaged by flooding, so you may need to make your way through vegetation. The route is not marked, but it is relatively easy to find your way; the trail is generally clearly visible, with very few intersections.

What you'll love

  • The spectacle of the Linn of Quoich: The turbulent waters of the river squeeze through narrow gorges, creating waterfalls and rapids in an exceptional natural setting.
  • The magnificent Caledonian pine forests that line the river and their majestic trees, which are part of an ecosystem that is being regenerated thanks to the work of the National Trust for Scotland.
  • The peaceful, authentic atmosphere of the Highlands: This hike remains uncrowded, so you can enjoy the quiet, away from the crowds.

Practical information

Parking

Paid parking is available at the trailhead operated by the National Trust for Scotland (indicative price in 2025: £5 per car). The money raised contributes to forest preservation and trail maintenance.

Long, monotonous trail to start with
Long, monotonous trail to start with
View of the Quoich River
View of the Quoich River
Footbridge across the river
Footbridge across the river
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Wild scenery along the way
Wild scenery along the way
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Quoich river waterfalls
Quoich river waterfalls
Quoich river waterfalls
Quoich river waterfalls
Quoich river waterfalls
Quoich river waterfalls
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Footbridge leading to the pathway used on the outward journey
Footbridge leading to the pathway used on the outward journey
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich
Linn of Quoich

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/scotland/linn-of-quoich/