Loch Pattack

Loch Pattack is a small loch in the Scottish Highlands, set within the Ardverikie Estate south of the Loch Laggan valley and the village of Kinloch Laggan. It lies at roughly 420 m above sea level and is the source of the River Pattack. There are no facilities here, and that is the appeal: it suits people who want remote, empty hill country.

Where is Loch Pattack?

The loch sits in the central Highlands, in the Highland council area, at about 56.879 N, 4.399 W. The surrounding land lies between Loch Laggan and Loch Ericht and borders Ben Alder Forest. It is a separate water from the much larger Loch Ericht further east, so do not confuse the two.

What will you see?

The River Pattack leaves the loch and runs north for about nine miles to Loch Laggan. It drops over a dozen sets of falls on the way, the largest being the Falls of Pattack at around 15 m high. The river and its falls make an easier outing than the loch itself, as they lie closer to the A86.

On the Ardverikie side rise three Munros: Geal Charn, Beinn a' Chlachair and Creag Pitridh. The Ben Alder area has more. The scenery is open moorland, estate tracks and bare hillsides.

How do you get there?

Driving takes you only as far as the Loch Laggan valley and the A86 near Kinloch Laggan. After that you travel on foot or by bike along estate tracks. One mountain bike route starts from a layby about a mile east of Kinloch Laggan, where a bridge crosses the River Pattack. Komoot also lists a circuit of Ardverikie and Loch Pattack of about 38 km, rated difficult, plus a stretch of narrow singletrack from the estate tracks by the loch towards Loch a' Bhealaich Leamhain.

When should you go?

Summer is best, with long days and drier tracks. During the deer stalking season, estates ask visitors to keep to established paths, so contact the estate about current access rules before you set out. Bring a map, water and clothing for changeable weather. Phone signal can be limited.

Can you fish here?

The loch lies inside a private estate and, according to the information gathered, serves as a remote angling water. No public details on fish species or permits were found, so fishing arrangements need to be confirmed with the estate.

Frequently asked questions

Is Loch Pattack the same as Loch Ericht?

No. Loch Pattack is a small loch on the Ardverikie Estate and the source of the River Pattack. Loch Ericht is a much larger loch further east.

Can you drive to the loch?

No. You walk or cycle along estate tracks from the A86 side.

Where does the river from the loch go?

The River Pattack flows north into Loch Laggan, passing the Falls of Pattack on the way.

Are there access restrictions?

During the deer stalking season visitors are asked to stay on established paths. Check current rules with the estates.