Den of Alyth, Alyth
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 4 kms | 01:00 (hrs:mins) | 0 metres | Explorer 381: Blairgowrie, Kirriemuir & Glamis |
Description
Den is from the Scots dialect meaning `wooded glen`. The Den of Alyth has several walks of varying length through the deep, shady glen of the Alyth Burn amongst mixed open woodland. Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the Den is notable for being naturally seeded and directly descended from the original deciduous woodland that once covered great swathes of lowland Scotland.
As well as being a quiet place to walk the Den is a place to rest, picnic and watch the varied wildlife. Oak, ash and birch trees are home to small birds like treecreepers and great tits, while dippers and grey wagtails live by the waterside.
Walking through the Den, the peaceful sound of flowing water is never far away. In places the Alyth Burn has cut deeply through the rock creating high cliffs. This has exposed reddish rock, known as Old Red Sandstone. Glaciers moving south from the Cairngorm ice mass were one of the main forces responsible for shaping the landscape of steep cliffs that can be seen today. The ice finally receded some 10,000 years ago; with the melting of the glaciers, vast quantities of meltwater created torrents loaded with rock debris, which acted as powerful scourers of the soft sandstone.
There are two car parks at different locations, a picnic area and some play facilities at the southern end. One of the walking trails has been upgraded and is suitable for wheelchair users and buggies.
Access Info
The Den is situated less than 2 minutes drive from the centre of Alyth. From Market Square, take Bamff Road west out of the village. The car parking areas and entrance to the Den are situated on the left hand side of the road.
Additional Info
Blairgowrie Tourist Information Centre can provide further information and a descriptive leaflet.
`Walks East Perthshire`, a pocket walking guide by Hallewell Publications, describes this route in detail as well as many others in the vicinity. Available from any Perthshire Tourist Information Centre.
Free Big Tree Country Guide also available from any Perthshire Tourist Information Centre. Packed with information on walking, cycling and wildlife watching at over 65 woodland and countryside sites, this is the ideal companion to help you explore Perthshire?s great outdoors. See also www.perthshirebigtreecountry.co.uk
