Loch Lochy

Loch Lochy is a long freshwater loch in Lochaber, in the Highland council area of Scotland. It lies along the Great Glen and forms one link in the Caledonian Canal, joined to neighbouring Loch Oich, while the River Lochy flows out from its southern end. With a mean depth of about 70 metres, it ranks as the fourth-deepest loch in the country, and it makes an easy stop between Inverness and Fort William.

What is Loch Lochy like?

The loch fills a narrow valley carved along the Great Glen Fault, the geological line that splits the Highlands from coast to coast. Forest and moorland cover the slopes on both sides. The water is part of a working navigation: boats pass along the canal, and locks mark both ends of the loch. Laggan Locks sit at the northern end, while Gairlochy, where the B8004 crosses the canal, lies near the southern tip.

Loch Ness is roughly 16 km to the north-east, so the two lochs fit into the same day or the same longer journey through the glen.

How do you get to Loch Lochy?

The A82 runs along the north-western shore and links Inverness with Fort William, with the water visible from the road and lay-bys for short stops. At Spean Bridge, the B8004 branches off towards Gairlochy and the southern end of the loch. Driving is the simplest option; long-distance coaches also use the A82 in season.

What can you do here?

Walking and cycling. The Great Glen Way, which links Fort William and Inverness, passes close to the loch. The stretch between Gairlochy and Laggan follows forest tracks above the water for much of the way, with views over the loch in places. Forestry and Land Scotland describes the Gairlochy forest as popular with walkers and cyclists. At Laggan Locks you can also follow the canal towpath.

Boating and paddling. The Caledonian Canal attracts yachts, cruisers and kayakers, and Loch Lochy is its broad, open section.

History nearby. About a mile from Spean Bridge, at the A82 and B8004 junction, stands the Commando Memorial. It honours the commandos who trained in this area between 1942 and 1945, especially around Achnacarry, and it looks out over a wide mountain panorama.

When should you visit?

Spring and early autumn bring clear views and lighter traffic on the trail. Summer days are long, but Highland weather turns quickly, so pack a waterproof layer. In winter, forest tracks can be muddy or slippery.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Loch Lochy? In the Great Glen, in Lochaber (Highland), on the Caledonian Canal between Loch Oich and Loch Linnhe. Coordinates: 56.97 N, 4.91 W.

How deep is Loch Lochy? Its mean depth is about 70 m, making it the fourth-deepest loch in Scotland.

Can you walk along the loch? Yes. The Great Glen Way runs near the loch, and the Gairlochy to Laggan section follows forest tracks for much of its length.

Is it connected to Loch Ness? Indirectly. The Caledonian Canal links Loch Lochy to Loch Oich and onward to Loch Ness, forming a continuous waterway through the glen.