Top 9 Lakes in Deeside And Lochnagar
Best lakes in Deeside And Lochnagar are found within a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape, including mountains, forests, and significant water bodies. This area, part of the Balmoral Estate, offers opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. The landscape features both accessible lochs and remote mountain passes, providing varied experiences for visitors.
Best lakes in Deeside And Lochnagar
- The most popular lakes is Loch Muick, a lake that offers walking routes and wildlife viewing opportunities. It is part of the Balmoral Estate and features a visitor centre and car park.
- Another must-see spot is Loch Callater, a freshwater upland lake. Surrounded by steep hills, it is known for freshwater fish like trout and salmon.
- Visitors also love View of Lochnagar Corrie and Loch from Meikle Pap, a viewpoint offering vistas of Lochnagar's corrie and its dark pool. This summit provides a perspective of the granite corrie and the lake below.
- Deeside And Lochnagar is known for its freshwater upland lakes and remote mountain lochs. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with visitor facilities to more secluded spots.
- The lakes in Deeside And Lochnagar are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 highlights and 46 photos contributed. These locations have received 91 upvotes from users.
Last updated: October 2, 2026
Loch Muick
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Clas Fhearnaig Pass
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Most people walk through here on a circuit of the two glens from the south but you can also access the ridge and head south to Creag Bhalg, it's rough country though.
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Loch Muick
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Loch Callater
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Home of freshwater fish, such as trout, salmon and eels.
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View of Lochnagar Corrie and Loch from Meikle Pap
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Tips from the Community
Some small remote hill lochs and reportedly the spot where an old alder survives in this almost treeless part of the landscape.
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Good camping ground on the side of the loch next to the Bothy
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Lochnagar is an impressive hill. If going to the White Mounth beyond do not underestimate the walk back out.
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Stunning 7.75 mile hike round Loch Muick on Monday. One side is a great track with stunning views of the loch and mountains, the colours of the flowering Heather was fabulous. Nice cuppa at lochside opposite the lodge. Track then takes you through lovely woods. Bottom of Loch track takes you over stepping stones to other side which was a harder walk because of stones and uneven ground. Walking poles recommended for this side. Great views across the Loch to the lodge and part views of lochnagar. Silly me stopped for a cuppa at rangers hut and got eaten alive by midgies! It took us 4 hours 10 minutes including a 15 minute lunch break.
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A freshwater, upland loch, surrounded by steep hills. Home of freshwater fish, such as trout, salmon and eels.
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A cool spot for a nice picture at the shore of Loch Muick. If the weather is bad, you might also pitch your tent inside the open boat house.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Deeside and Lochnagar are suitable for easy walks or family outings?
For an accessible and family-friendly experience, Loch Muick offers various walking routes, a visitor centre, and a car park. It's part of the Balmoral Estate and provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. While Loch Ullachie also has a good parking area, be aware that a path leading from it might be blocked by a locked gate.
How long does it typically take to walk around Loch Muick?
A walk around Loch Muick generally takes a couple of hours, offering a pleasant experience with opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting.
Are there specific parking facilities for lakes like Loch Callater?
While the guide data doesn't specify parking for Loch Callater, many visitors access it from Glen Callater, where parking is available at the end of the public road near Auchallater, followed by a walk to the loch. For Loch Muick, there is a dedicated car park near the visitor centre.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes in Deeside and Lochnagar?
The region is rich in wildlife. Around Loch Muick, you might spot grouse and deer. The freshwater upland lakes, such as Loch Callater, are home to freshwater fish like trout, salmon, and eels.
Are there any good viewpoints of the lakes in the area?
Yes, View of Lochnagar Corrie and Loch from Meikle Pap offers a sensational perspective of Lochnagar's great granite corrie and the dark pool below. It's a grand summit providing a unique vista of the landscape.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Deeside and Lochnagar?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, road cycling routes, and mountain hikes. For example, there are challenging running loops like the 'Derry Cairngorm & Ben Macdui loop' and scenic road cycling routes such as 'Ballater to Gairnshiel Circular'. Explore more options in the Running Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Mountain Hikes guides for Deeside And Lochnagar.
Are there any remote or 'hidden gem' lakes in the Deeside and Lochnagar area?
The Clas Fhearnaig Pass features two long, remote hill lochs that make for a nice feature and a good resting place. This area is known for its rough country and offers a more secluded experience away from more popular spots.
Can I camp near any of the lakes?
Yes, Loch Callater has good camping ground available on the side of the loch next to the Bothy. Additionally, at Loch Muick, if the weather is poor, you might even pitch your tent inside the open boat house for shelter.
What makes the Clas Fhearnaig Pass unique among the lakes?
The Clas Fhearnaig Pass is unique for linking Glen Quoich and Glen Lui, featuring two long lochs at its high point of about 500m. It's known for its remote hill lochs and reportedly hosts an old alder tree in an otherwise treeless landscape, offering a rugged and scenic experience.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Deeside and Lochnagar?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscape, from accessible lochs with visitor facilities to more secluded mountain pools. The opportunities for walking, wildlife observation, and the stunning views, such as those from Meikle Pap overlooking Lochnagar's corrie, are frequently highlighted.
Are there any specific tips for navigating around Loch Ullachie?
When visiting Loch Ullachie, be aware that a path shown on maps might be blocked by a locked gate. It's often easier to return the way you came in rather than attempting to find an alternative route past the blockage.
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Still not found your perfect lake in Deeside And Lochnagar? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
