I was so jealous when I saw this article. I dream of he day there are marked “beaver trails” in the US. And no trappers along them!

Exploring new beaver trail at Rothiemurchus – but did I spot any buck-toothed rodents?

A great way to learn more about the beaver reintroduction project – and, hopefully, to spot one – is to walk or cycle the newly named Beaver Trail.

The 7km loop, on a pre-existing trail, takes in the beaver’s natural habitat and passes the stunning mirrored waters of Lochan Mor.

If you fancy a short diversion, you can also take in Loch an Eilein.

How fun to walk a marked beaver trail! And there is certainly an apetite for it nowadays. Back when we had actual beavers I would have worried about the possibility of harassment coming the beavers way if there were signs marking the trail. Maybe if it was a larger area and the beavers had more protection I wouldn’t have worried.

Parking at the Woodlands car park at Inverdruie, opposite the estate’s Farm Shop and Barn Cafe, I stroll through the ancient forest and along the easy-to-follow Beaver Trail, signposted in red.

I know this beautiful walk well, having explored it many times in the past – but before it became the dedicated Beaver Trail.

The trail heads through a metal gate and deep into woodland where there are new information boards galore about beavers and ‘gnawed’ wooden signs.

Give beavers space

These advise you to give beavers space if you do spot them and I personally think I would be shocked into silence if I did.

After crossing some open ground, the route undulates through the forest before descending to reach the outflow of glorious Lochan Mor, known locally as the Lily Loch.

Ya ya ya. That’s it. You got beaver chew signs and reminders how to spot wildlife along the way. Sure just show OFF why don’t you. Maybe you could even have a castle or something along the path.

The sun hits the loch as I gaze across its still waters to the ruined 13th Century island castle.