The current Deeside Way is a scenic walking and cycling trail that stretches from Aberdeen to Ballater, Scotland. For the most part, this path follows the route of the old Deeside Railway Line and stays relatively close to the River Dee. Covering a total distance of 41 miles (66 km), it passes through the charming villages of Royal Deeside along the way. With its relatively flat terrain, it also makes an excellent cycling route.

Important: The alternative route described below takes you into some of the most scenic yet sensitive areas of the Deeside Cairngorms. These woodlands are home to the last remaining fragments of the endangered Capercaillie population. Please adhere to local guidance, keep dogs on leads, and ensure you leave no trace. While these areas are already frequented by walkers and cyclists, this blog aims to highlight the ongoing conservation concerns. For more information on the Capercaillie and conservation efforts, visit the Cairngorms Capercaillie Project.

So why propose an alternative?

While the current route of the Deeside Way traverses picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages, it misses some of the highlights of the Cairngorms National Park. In certain sections, it also runs quite close to the A93, and I’m not a fan of walking next to a main road. However, with new link paths now connecting Aboyne to Glen Tanar and Ballochbuie Forest on the Balmoral Estate to Braemar, the route can be extended all the way to the source of the River Dee for those seeking a more adventurous experience!

The current route bypasses the stunning Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve and Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, which includes Loch Kinord and the striking Burn o’ Vat. With the new extension, you can also explore Loch Muick, Balmoral, Ballochbuie Forest, Braemar, and beyond! Old drovers' roads intersecting the trail provide multiple options and destinations to consider.

The official Deeside Way website splits the route into four sections: Aberdeen to Drumoak, Drumoak to Banchory, Banchory to Aboyne, and Aboyne to Ballater. Here’s what I would recommend for the final stage of the route.

Aboyne to Ballater - the new and improved stage four:

Start with coffee in fab The Boat Inn! Take the new connecting path south of the River Dee to Glen Tanar, where you can visit the informative Visitor Centre. You might want to extend your walk slightly to visit St. Lesmo’s Chapel and the viewpoint overlooking the Glen. Glen Tanar, home to Scotland's third-largest area of Caledonian pine forest, is well worth exploring further.

From the Visitor Centre, follow the Firmounth Road towards Dinnet. Once in Dinnet, pass Clarack Loch and continue to the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve. At Loch Kinord, take the path around the north bank of the loch and then enjoy the impressive Burn o’ Vat, continuing through Cambus o’ May Forest. Rejoin the old railway line path near the Cambos o’ May cheese shop and café, continue on to Ballater.

This section would cover 14.3 miles (23 km) with 350 meters of ascent. While it may not be as easy on a bike—particularly the Loch Kinord to Cambus o’ May section—it takes in some of the finest highlights of the eastern Cairngorms National Park and offers a much more rewarding experience than the current route.

As for stages five, six, seven, or eight? The logistics of continuing on foot become trickier, but it's entirely doable with organised transport.

Ballater to Loch Muick:

With the closure of the bridge over the River Muick at Birkhall and no viable alternative (as shown on the map…) at the Knock, you may need to take a road walk to join the northern tracks that follow the River Muick up to the loch. There are several options within the forest if you'd like to extend this stage or explore more areas with a bit of elevation. For collection, walk down to the boathouse for a good view of the loch and around to the Visitor Centre.

12 miles (19.3 km) with 320m of ascent.

Loch Muick to Crathie

You have two route options here: one follows a rougher track closer to Lochnagar, while the other takes the Inchnabobart to Crathie road, which is much easier if you're on a bike. Both routes can be extended to include one or more of the Balmoral Cairns.

11+ miles (17.5 km) with 320+ m of ascent.

Crathie to Braemar

From the Visitor Centre, take the track leading to the footbridge over the Dee, which brings you into Easter Balmoral. Follow the trail past Prince Albert’s Cairn and continue along the tracks towards Braemar, taking the new link path just west of the old Bridge of Dee. This route also offers options to extend your walk by visiting some of the Balmoral Cairns. You may also want to consider visiting the Balmoral Castle grounds, which are often free to access during the winter months. Again, tea and cake in the Bothy is recommended!

11.5+ miles (18.4 km) with 390+ m of ascent.

Braemar to Wells of Dee

Ok, this is more for the seasoned hillgoer…An absolute classic, multiday walk into the heart of the Cairngorms to see the source of the River Dee…

Would you like a guided hike?

If you would like to do some or all of the stages above and would like the help of a guide and transportation, please get in touch.

Alternative Deeside Way

Microspikes or Crampons?