We are asking for your help to expand and improve the trail network at Dundreggan, so that people of all abilities can explore the Caledonian Forest and discover the benefits of rewilding.
When the Rewilding Centre opens in 2023, Dundreggan will become a place for people to discover a landscape being rewilded and restored to its full potential. Funding for the centre and accommodation buildings has been secured. We are now asking for your help to fund improvements to Dundreggan’s network of trails.
Everyone should have the opportunity to engage with and benefit from nature, regardless of their background or ability. To make this possible at Dundreggan we will create an all-ability trail by upgrading an existing circular walk on relatively flat ground. We will remove obstacles, provide a firm surface and widen the path to allow space for those in wheelchairs and with mobility aids to use the trail safely and comfortably.
A new easy* trail will allow further exploration of the regenerating forest and views over our tree nursery. This trail will be free of barriers such as steps, fences, gates and stiles and the mild gradients mean that it will be reasonably accessible. A moderate* trail will offer a longer and more challenging walk to several viewpoints, including over one of our planting areas.
Providing these trails will mean that anyone who visits Dundreggan will be able to get out into wild nature because there will be options to suit their abilities and time available.
Signage will be used sparingly to inspire questions, encourage exploration and provoke interaction with the landscape. Benches and viewpoints will provide a place to rest for visitors with mobility difficulties and allow everyone to sit quietly and enjoy this very special place. Well-built and well-maintained trails will also protect the land from erosion and disturbance, ensuring visitors do not damage what they have come to see.
The trails will enable people to see, touch and feel the cultural and natural heritage of Dundreggan, offering chances to explore ancient field enclosures and rocky cairns, long abandoned shielings and natural waterfalls. All this is set within regenerating Caledonian Forest, alive with plants and animals, with wonderful views south over Glenmoriston and the River Moriston, and west to Glen Shiel and Kintail.
These trails will also allow visitors to experience a wild and regenerating forest, bringing them closer to nature and demonstrating the benefits of rewilding. We hope this will inspire people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities to become actively involved in rewilding at home and in their own communities.
Any surplus funds raised by this appeal will be used to fund our wider work to rewild the Scottish Highlands.
*Grading descriptions are based on the Paths for All grading system.