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Pitlochry Dam & Fish Ladder Walk

Taking in some of Pitlochry's well know places.

The Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder is a fascinating and picturesque engineering site located in the heart of Pitlochry. It combines functionality with an intriguing glimpse into nature and renewable energy systems.

The Pitlochry Dam was constructed between 1947 and 1951 as part of Scotland’s hydroelectric development. It is a hydroelectric power station operated by SSE (Scottish and Southern Energy). The dam harnesses the flow of the River Tummel to generate electricity, contributing to Scotland’s renewable energy goals.

The fish ladder is an integral part of the dam, designed to help salmon migrate upstream to their spawning grounds. It consists of 34 chambers arranged in a zigzag pattern, enabling fish to bypass the dam safely.

Visitors can observe the fish ladder by the walkway alongside it, or at the information point and screens at the end of the ladder - offering a rare opportunity to watch salmon swimming upstream during their migration season (typically May to September).

The Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre, which opened in 2017, offers an immersive experience with exhibits on the dam’s construction, hydroelectric power, and local wildlife. The center provides detailed information about the salmon’s life cycle, the history of hydroelectricity, and the importance of sustainable energy. It is an excellent spot for families, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in renewable energy.

The dam and visitor center are easily accessible from the town of Pitlochry, which is a well-loved stop for visitors traveling through the Scottish Highlands. Admission to the fish ladder and visitor center is free.

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Pitlochry Dam & Fish Ladder Walk

Terrain: Tar roads and paths, stairs, woodland path on return side.
Distance: Approx 2kms
Time: Allow 1 hour
Parking: View on Google Maps
Download PDF Map

Head to the Dam Visitor Centre - you can either walk here from the town, which takes around 10 minutes from the centre; or you can drive down and park in the parking area. Head to the Dam and cross over taking in the lovely views as you go. After heavy rainfall the dam may be opened or overflowing, which adds to the excitement!

At the end of the dam, take the steps down to the left , and then carry on down the side of the fish ladder. At the end of the fish ladder there is a new information area with a live feed where you can try to spot some salmon on the built-in monitors.

Carry on along passing the front of the Pitlochry Festival Theatre - where you will often see fishermen in the river, and salmon jumping on their way to the fish ladder - then you will pass through the small hamlet of Port na Craig, established in the 12th Century by the monks of Coupar Angus. Then cross over the suspension bridge - built in 1913, look just above the bridge on the Pitlochry bank at the large slab of rock, it is from here the ferryman rowed passengers over the river until the bridge was built.

Turn left and walk back up the other side of the river, following the path up the '100 steps' which will bring you back to the Dam Visitor Centre, where you can pop in to browse the lovely shop, or have a bite to eat in the cafe, head downstairs for some interesting exhibits about the constructon of the dam, and hydro electricity.

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