This Glen Varragill Forest Walk follows an old logging track which runs parallel to the A87 Sligachan to Portree. Heading North towards Portree from Sligachan the track starts approximately 4km or 2.5 miles up Glen Varragill on your left. The logging track starts at the A87 and bends down to the River Varragill crossing a bridge. There are a couple of parking spots immediately on your left at the top of the track.
Surface of the track
The track you follow is an old logging track from when the timber was cut and removed from Varragill Forest. To access the track walk down to the bridge and go through the gate. To the left hand side is a small gate but wheelchair users will need to open the metal 5 bar gate to get through. If the wooden bridge is damp underfoot it can get a bit slippery. My advice is to walk on the centre of the bridge not on the planks running the length of the bridge. These ones get super slippery!
The track is a sturdy rock and gravel surface as heavy machinery was using it. Initially the track is quite rocky so may be bumpy for anyone in a wheelchair. There are a few potholes but these can easily be avoided as the track is very wide. After a lot of rain the very start of the track becomes one big puddle which might make things a little tricky to be pushed through unless your pusher is wearing wellies!
Glen Varragill Forest Walk
The walk initially goes up hill through the last bit of remaining forest until you reach the new mobile phone mast. From here the track follows the contour of the glen with more gentle undulations. If you are in a wheelchair the person pushing you will have a bit of hard work to do at the start. Otherwise the going is fairly easy underfoot.
Further along the track are views to Ben Tianavaig in the distance on the right and over Portree to the Old Man of Storr. On a clear day you should be able to see the Storr Pinnacle rising out of the Trotternish ridge. Below you the River Varragill flows gently downhill until it flows out to sea through Loch Portree. You are in Eagle territory here so keep you eyes open for both Golden Eagles and White Tailed Sea Eagles. I have seen both flying in this area at different times.
After about 2.5km or 1.5 miles the gravel surface runs out and the track turns into a muddy path. All is not lost, if you turn around here, by the time you reach your car you have walked just over 5km or 3 miles. The views on the return leg are of the stunning Cuillins and Glamaig. Simply retrace your steps and head back to the car. The reward is that most of the path is now downhill!
Above all the Glen Varragill walk is perfect for so many different abilities and fitness levels. Wheelchair users can explore if they have a strong pusher. Those with limited mobility can access the track with few problems. Finally those looking to gain a bit of fitness can definitely benefit from a walk here. In fairness if you are looking to get even fitter you could walk, run or cycle on this track and appreciate the views and the fresh air. At the end of the day you only have to walk as far as you want to before you turn back.