About This Route
The Great Glen Canoe Trail spans 60 miles from Fort William to Inverness, linking Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, Loch Ness via the historic Caledonian Canal locks. Launch at Banavie near Neptune's Staircase for a 4-5 day expedition through glens flanked by Ben Nevis and Monadhliath hills. Portage around 29 locks; expect mixed flatwater and canal paddling with occasional wind fetch. British Canoeing endorses this route for its accessibility, but multi-day commitments require meticulous planning per SCA multi-day protocols.
Safety Considerations
Hypothermia looms large with water at 8-12°C; cold shock response incapacitates in 1-3 minutes per RNLI stats. Canal locks pose entrapment risks; never paddle through operating gates. Exposed lochs generate crossing swells; ferry glide across winds. Ticks and midges thrive; check gear daily. Monitor SEPA flood warnings, as Highland rains spike canal flows. Group of four lost visibility in 2021 fog on Loch Oich, navigated safely with GPS, highlighting electronics' value. Practice Leave No Trace: camp only at designated sites like Laggan Locks, minimizing fires.
Essential Gear
Essential: Kokatat Tempest drysuit for prolonged exposure, Stohlquist Edge PFD, Carlisle Magic Plus paddle, bomb shelter tarp, and Garmin inReach satellite communicator. Add Jetboil Flash stove, Aquamira water purifier for loch sources, and Sea to Summit drybags for portages. Nose clips for lock swims; throw ropes for rescues.