A long distance walk exploring the area’s recent history and taking in some stunning views.

We will head out of Kinlochleven along the historic Ciaran Path passing through oak and birch woodland as the path meanders alongside the River Leven. Pausing at a large clearing by the riverside, we take a look at the site of the First World War prisoner of war camp. On the way to the dam, the route runs alongside the pipeline, built by German prisoners, connecting the reservoir with Loch Eilde Mor.

There’s an opportunity to look at the engineering marvel of the dam before we make our return journey following the conduit taking water from the dam on its 5.6km journey to the Lower Penstock. On the way we stop off at one of the remotest graveyards in Britain, where navvies who died working on the construction of the dam are buried. From the Penstock it’s a steep descent, meeting up with the hydro-scheme pipes lower down, as they make their final journey to the powerhouse.

Walk notes

A rough path, rocky in places, to the Blackwater Dam and then a good Land Rover back to Kinlochleven.

Full hill walking gear required: full waterproofs, warm clothes, hat, gloves, sturdy boots. Packed lunch and hot drinks. The walk leader will have first aid and an emergency shelter.

Suitable for children: minimum age 12 and accompanied by adult

Grading: Moderate to strenuous

Distance: 17.5km