View across Loch Insh in Badenoch and Strathspey, surrounded by forested hills and open skies in the Cairngorms National Park, Scottish Highlands.

Badenoch & Strathspey – Mountain Plateaux, River Valleys, and Forest

An upland Highland area of high ground, broad straths, and river corridors along the upper Spey

Badenoch & Strathspey is an upland area of mountain plateaux, wide river valleys, and forested ground in the central Highlands of Scotland. Walking routes cross the Cairngorms National Park, follow long sections of the Speyside Way and the Badenoch Way, and use riverside, forest, and estate paths linking places such as Aviemore, Kingussie, Newtonmore, Grantown-on-Spey, and Carrbridge across straths, woodland, and open upland ground.

Much of the terrain is mixed underfoot. Lower-level routes use firm riverside paths, forest tracks, and estate roads, allowing steady progress through the strath. Higher ground involves rougher paths, open hillside, and exposed plateaux with longer climbs and more variable conditions, though gradients are often broad rather than sharply stepped.

The landscape shifts between sub-areas. Strathspey is defined by the River Spey and its wide valley floor, with woodland and farmland along the corridor. Badenoch to the south includes broader upland basins and open ground around Kingussie and Newtonmore. Toward the Cairngorm massif, terrain rises onto high plateaux, with sparse vegetation and extensive views.

Settlements are aligned along the main valley and transport corridor, creating regular access points for linear and circular routes while large areas of upland remain lightly settled and uninterrupted.

Trails and Routes Through Badenoch & Strathspey

Speyside Way

A long-distance route following the River Spey from the Cairngorms toward the Moray coast, using riverside paths, tracks, and minor roads.

Badenoch Way

A long-distance route running between Dalraddy and Glenmore, linking Badenoch with Strathspey across forest, valley, and upland terrain.

River Spey paths

Local and regional riverside routes providing level walking and connections between towns and villages along the strath.

Cairngorm forest and estate tracks

Extensive networks around Glenmore, Rothiemurchus, and the lower slopes of the Cairngorms, used for shorter loops and upland access.

Walking Character

High mountain plateaux and upland margins
Broad river valleys and straths
Forest tracks, estate roads, and riverside paths
Longer climbs onto open high ground
Settlements concentrated along valley corridors
Predominantly inland and upland

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Badenoch & Strathspey located?

Badenoch & Strathspey lies in the central Scottish Highlands, centred on the upper River Spey and extending into the Cairngorms.

What defines walking here?

A mix of valley-floor routes and higher upland walking, with forest, river, and plateau terrain within a compact area.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The Speyside Way and Badenoch Way provide long-distance walking, supported by extensive local path networks.

Is the terrain steep?

Lower routes are generally gentle, while higher ground involves longer ascents and more exposed conditions rather than technical climbing.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring to early autumn offers the best balance of daylight and access. Winter conditions affect higher ground, with snow and limited visibility common on the plateaux.