This guide is an essential resource to help you plan your journey through the Great Glen across Scotland. As well as the calm waters of the Caledonian Canal there are the challenging open waters of Loch Lochy and Loch Ness. Here you will find advice on how to deal with the conditions as well as food, equipment, safety, communication and rescue.

The best craft for the adventure are open canoes, sea kayaks or touring kayaks. There is advice on choosing the right craft, loading it, and the best ways of carrying it over portages.

The coast to coast route can normally be completed in three to five days. We have split the route into a five day expedition and each day is described in detail, including camping and other forms of accommodation. There are also numerous single day options and, for the more advanced paddlers, suggested routes that link stretches of river with lochs and canal sections.