Map 5 - Glen Dee to Glen Tilt

















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The path has now moved away from the river, but two miles further down the glen it begins to follow the course of the river once more.  Here the Glen begins to open out and the River Dee widens, leaving the soaring towers of the Cairngorms behind.  After another three miles the path brings you to White Bridge which crosses the River Dee. Just before the bridge are some wonderful waterfalls, the Chest of Dee.  Take a moment to take in the magnificence of these falls and spot a heron or two fishing.  Cross the bridge and take the track to the right until you reach Geldie Burn.  You will have to ford this stream as there is no bridge – plenty of stepping stones however.  From here the path becomes a little indistinct. However, you should be able to see the ruin of Bynack Lodge a mile or so in front of you, so head for that or follow the Bynack Burn which also takes you there.  From the lodge the path is clear and follows the contours of the valley.  There are many small streams to cross over the next two miles, but eventually the valley falls away into the steep sided gully of Allt Garbh Buidhe with Coire na creige high up to your right and Meall na Cailliich Buidhe to your left.  It is at this point that you leave the Cairngoms National Park and will encounter a plethora of sheep scampering in all directions up the steep slopes of the gorge, as you walk through them.  This footpath is quite narrow at times so be a little careful with your footwork. Common lizards are to be seen along this path.  The gorge walk ends at the Falls of Tarf.  Here there is an ornate 19th centaury footbridge over Tarf water. These waterfalls are particularly beautiful and the plunge pools are well worth a swim in the summer months.  Walk over the bridge, but take time to read the dedication plaque which explains why the bridge was constructed; an interesting story.  At the other side of the bridge the footpath changes back into a track, take this and descend down into Glen Tilt a typical example of a glacial melt cut valley. The valley is stunning and the river tilt boasts many wonderful rapids, a white water rafter’s dream in high water.

Chest of Dee