A small town nestled among trees with white buildings, a church with a tall steeple, surrounded by hills and a lake in the background during sunset.
A person with a backpack standing on grass near a large, historic stone church with a clock tower, surrounded by trees.

Tay Trails

GUIDED WALKS IN BIG TREE COUNTRY

BOOK A WALK

Discover the natural beauty and fascinating history of Dunkeld & Birnam on expert-led walks and hikes with James Jarvis.

Autumn Equinox Walk

SUNDAY 22 SEPTEMBER | 10AM - 1PM | £30 PER PERSON | 5 MILES

Your Guide

Your guide, James, is a qualified Mountain Leader who lives in Dunkeld having moved from Edinburgh in 2021. During that time he has been discovering paths and researching their history. James' experience includes supervising Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions and leading adults with intellectual difficulties up Munros. He is happily married, with four grown up children.

A man wearing glasses and a colorful neck gaiter standing outdoors with a landscape of rolling hills, water, and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

  • Up to 7.8km (5 miles) and 250 metres (800 feet) of overall ascent achieved gradually in the first third of the walk. This walk is ideal for active children aged 8+ and adventurous adults. Overall the paths are very walkable however boots are necessary as there are puddles and mud. There are some challenge obstacles - climbing over and under tree trunks. 

  • We will banish any chills by a warming climb up behind Dunkeld following and old route called Sunny Brae. We will take our time on the climb allowing everyone to be introduced.

    Once across the Blairgowrie Road, we will be in the fabulous woodland for which the area is famous. The beech mast will crunch underfoot before we transition into the Atholl Woods proper. Our first destination is the mysterious Duchess Cove Grotto - a magical, romantic spot next to a tumbling waterfall which is particularly special in the rain. The final approach provides some exciting obstacles but with care these may be overcome.  Children can help the adults!

    The Duchess Cove Grotto is the literal high point and from here we will be gently descending to the stunning Polney Loch through the mixed woodland where pine martens have been seen. There are some fabulous photo opportunities at the loch side.

    Next we head across the sleepy old A9 route towards St Colme's Well, nestled under the Pictish Hill Fort known as King's Seat. 

    Finally we descend towards Dunkeld House Hotel to follow in the footsteps of the General back along the River Tay to arrive back in time for lunch.

Book a Guided Walk

Beige background with a green cross symbol in the center.

Important information

  • By booking I affirm I  

      a. am capable of undertaking the the level of walking involved

      b. will attend with the required personal kit

      c. inform the leader of any reasonable adjustments required in advance

      d. arrive punctually

    The leader is Outdoor First Aid-trained, insured and qualified under the UK Mountain Training Award Scheme to lead the walk.  The leader reserves the right to change the route taken due to weather or third party activity.

    In the event of cancellation, there will be no refunds.

    To read the full terms & conditions, please click here.

  • To wear:
    - Boots (with ankle support and soles which will grip on rock, grass and mud)
    - General trekking trousers (not jeans or cotton material)

    To carry:
    - Rucksack - about 35 litres 
    - Waterproof jacket (with hood)
    - Mobile phone
    - Food and drink

    To take when appropriate:
    - Sunhat
    - Sun cream
    - Sunglasses

  • Unfortunately, all bookings are final and we cannot offer refunds for guided walks.

  • If you have any questions regarding one of the walks please contact James directly at jjarvis970@gmail.com