Summary

(NB There is harvesting work till end of 2022. See Facebook post for details 

Greshornish and Waternish Forests Walk is basically a one way (or there and back) walk through the forests of Greshornish and Waternish. Winding its way through the forest, the undulating track offers great views of the Trotternish Ridge and  Uig to the north east and the Western Isles to the west. Views of the Cuillin in the distance can be seen to the south. Given the walk is not over crofting land it is very safe for dogs, although in winter deer may be a bit more visible. (As with all forests there could be restrictions due to harvesting at times.)

(Walk 6 on the introduction map)

Distance: 12km – one way ( about 8.5 miles),   24km – circular route

Time: 3 – 4 hours or 6 – 7 hours for the circuit.

Terrain :Forestry track. One steep downhill or uphill section depending on the direction of the walk. Single track and main roads on the circular route.

From Greshornish Forest

The track into Greshornish Forest starts at a gate on on the road from Dunvegan to Portree (known locally as the blue tyre) which can be found a few kilometres from Fairy Bridge, on the Portree side. There is room for parking of a few cars being careful to keep the gate clear.  

View of Trotternish by Fiona Middleton

From Waternish

Starting from the Waternish end, you can commence the walk from B886 on Waternish. (From Skyeskyns you go passed 5 houses, then over a flat bridge on the access is on the right). Again there is parking for a few cars but please keep the access clear. Go through the cattle grid, up the hill (probably only area where there might be sheep or cattle) through a second cattle grid, then turn right after a few hundred meters and now you just keep walking……

View towards Dunvegan Head

Route starting from The Blue Tyre

Starting at the ‘blue tyre’ follow the track into the forest. You can see the Trotternish Ridge on your right.

After 2km keep left on to the track which goes gently uphill.

Where the Track splits

(The right fork is another walk over to above Loch Duibaig although it does not actually go to the loch.) After a further 4km a river is reached, which is  lovely spot to rest and have a picnic. Or it is about half way if you wanted to turn around!

The river – lunch spot