Name of walk: The Forest Ride Track - South of River over Aboyne Bridge

Grade symbol: Strenuous

Length of walk: 3.4 miles / 5.5 km from the Boat Inn

Time to allow: 3 hours

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What to see:

Recommended to be started and finished opposite the Boat Inn on Charlestown Road. 

A mostly circular walk taking in an ancient bridle track and beautiful mature forest. It involves a tarmac path, gravel track and a stoney and at times narrow path which can be wet and slippery underfoot. A lovely tranquil walk with lots of variety.

Terrain description:

This walk takes you along a minor road, Birsemohr Road, with no pavement. Although not busy the road is narrow and there is poor visibility on bends. Please take care, especially with children, and walk to face oncoming traffic.  The walk has a significant forested section so please take care following any extreme weather events as trees and branches can become unstable. If you come across any unstable-looking blown trees find a safe alternative route. Do not attempt to climb over or under them. There is a steep downhill at one point. 

Be aware that the paths are shared with mountain bikers.

Path description

Cross Aboyne Bridge and at the junction with B976 turn left. Keep on the pavement for 150 m until the pavement runs out. Cross the road onto a private road with a 20mph sign. Follow this for 700 m keeping left on bends and across a track bridge. Continue ahead between fields and take a left turn before a bridge crossing.  Go through a small wooden gate on the left and follow the bridle track with views of the Queens Loch through the trees on the left.  At the end of the path a pedestrian gate leads to the Birsemohr road.  Turn right into the wood at a gap in the wall and follow a small path for 200 m parallel to the road. When the path meets a track opposite Birsemohr Crescent turn right (if you choose to walk this 200 m section on the road look out for traffic).

Follow this track, with a gentle uphill then a flat section for 800 m, keeping right at two minor forks.  At the end of the flat section go straight on and slightly right down a steep hill - take care on this steep downhill and uneven underfoot section. At the bottom of the slope the path trends right, following a burn on the left and passing an old, deserted cottage. You will soon reach the gate onto the bridle track.  Turn left then right and retrace your footsteps between the fields and back to the village.