This series acts as an add-on to the Allt Mor Amble series on the trail out to the Chalamain Gap in the Cairngorms National Park. The Allt Mor path passes by Utsi's bridge, which is where the path towards Chalamain gap splits off. The Chalamain gap is an impressive boulder-filled ravine, originally created by glacial drainage meltwater. As this route crosses open hill country, it's advisable to have a map, compass and good navigation skills. The weather can change quickly and you should be properly equipped with warm and waterproof clothing, food and water.
Plentiful parking can be found in Glenmore, at the Sugarbowl half way up the mountain, and at the top ski car park (charged in some places, free in others). A good but sporadic bus route (number 31) has stops in Glenmore and up at the ski car park, and will usually stop if you flag it down elsewhere – check times here: http://www.travelinescotland.com
As you walk along the mountain path, look out for mountain hare, grouse and ptarmigan and the varied native plants which include Scots pine, Silver birch, heather, blaeberry and juniper. If you're around in July and August you can pick some blaeberries as a snack for your walk. Dogs will love the trail, but be careful to keep them under close control, especially in Spring/early Summer when they may disturb ground nesting birds. This track passes over land grazed by free-roaming members of the Cairngorm reindeer herd who are friendly but easily spooked by dogs. Please be aware that this is a sensitive area and do your best to minimise your impact on the environment – the Forestry Commission have kindly allowed us to place these caches here, so let's help them keep the Cairngorms beautiful and safeguard the land for future generations.
There are many walks that can be enjoyed in this area – there are maps available from the Glenmore Visitor Centre or downloadable here: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/forest-parks/glenmore-forest-park We hope that this series gives you an excuse to come and enjoy the stunning area that we're lucky enough to live in!