In September, thirteen members of Erne Paddlers completed a five day crossing of Scotland on the Great Glen Canoe Trail. The expedition highlights how structured training, safe practice and club support can open the door to adventure paddling, a progression that brings together longer journeys, varied conditions, decision making and self supported travel. Adventure paddling offers paddlers the chance to apply their skills in new environments while enjoying the teamwork, shared challenge and outdoor experience that define this type of journey. Below is a lovely article, written by Noreen Johnston, one of the paddlers who took part, it captures the spirit of the trip and the preparation and club support that made it possible.

Erne Paddlers are exploring options for further adventure paddling trips next year, so if you would like to register your interest or find out more, please get in touch with the club at email@ernepaddlers.org.uk

A five day crossing of the Great Glen Canoe Trail

On Saturday 5 September 2026, thirteen Erne Paddlers loaded their kayaks onto the trailer and set off for an adventure nine months in the making. Our plan was to complete a full crossing of Scotland on the Great Glen Canoe Trail. What lay ahead was more than a journey from Fort William to Inverness. It was a test of teamwork, resilience, humour and the quiet determination that grows when people commit to something bigger than themselves.

Preparation was woven through our club calendar. The Lough Erne Challenge campouts gave us a realistic sense of expedition life. We practised loading fully laden kayaks, tested how our boats handled under weight and refined the essentials of campcraft. The summer sea kayaking programme added experience in downwind runs, crosswinds, choppy water and long stretches of open water. These skills are essential when Scottish weather turns. Virtual planning meetings tied everything together with kit lists, food suggestions and guidance on fuelling five consecutive days on the water.

By the time we reached the start line, we were ready physically, mentally and technically for the challenge ahead.

Day 1 – Fort William to Gairlochy

After an overnight stay near Ben Nevis, we launched just above Neptune’s Staircase at Banavie. The scenery was breathtaking and the gentle canal meanders carried us to Gairlochy, where the first portage awaited. It was the first of many big team efforts, with heavy boats carried past the lock in good humour.

Lunch at the locks, a busy meeting point for cyclists, hikers and paddlers, set us up for the first strokes into Loch Lochy. While Loch Ness has Nessie, Loch Lochy has Lizzie, the kelpie said to inhabit its deep waters. A strong tailwind pushed us swiftly towards camp. A sudden thunderstorm sent us diving for shelter in a nearby log cabin. The storm passed quickly and after a good night’s sleep, Day 2 began.

Day 2 – Loch Lochy to Loch Oich

A challenging crosswind made the sheltered canal section leading to Loch Oich a welcome change of pace. We made camp on a warm, sunny evening. Midge nets were essential for the inevitable Scottish midges.

Day 3 – Loch Oich to Loch Ness

We set off early along the canal towards Fort Augustus and the promise of the best fish and chips on the Great Glen. The anticipation carried us through a tough 1.5 kilometre portage. It was a true test of teamwork and determination.

Once our kayaks were rested on the shores of Loch Ness, we finally claimed our reward. The vast, dark sweep of the loch stretched into the distance, holding both mystery and history. For a moment, we fell into quiet appreciation of where we were and what we had achieved so far.

Another team effort put us back on the water and out onto Loch Ness, heading for camp.

Day 4 – Loch Ness

After a good night’s sleep, we paddled the second stretch of Loch Ness. A singsong started up, laughter echoed across the water and one of those joyful moments emerged. It was the kind of moment that becomes a core memory of any expedition.

The sunrise the next morning was spectacular and added to the sense of achievement. By the end of Day 4, we reached a fully equipped campsite and treated ourselves to hot showers and a pub dinner. It was an impromptu celebration of everything we had achieved so far.

Day 5 – The Final Stretch

Our final day began early, following the treeline towards the end of Loch Ness. A crosswind blew up, making us appreciate the calm waters of the last stretch of canal. The choppy waters of Loch Ness disappeared behind us as we paddled steadily towards the finish.

With whooping and cheering, we reached the end point. One last team effort lifted the kayaks out of the water and onto the trailer. Full of delight and exhilaration, we headed to our hotel and later shared stories and laughter over a celebratory dinner.

A Journey to Remember

We arrived as thirteen paddlers with a plan. We finished as thirteen friends with a shared achievement.

The Great Glen Canoe Trail tested, rewarded, challenged and delighted us. Every kilometre was made possible by the spirit, humour and heart of our team. It was an adventure we will carry with us, not just in photographs, but in the friendships and confidence forged along the way.