They'll flood to the Kingussie Walkfest!
The waters were rising again in Kingussie as plans for a walk to the source of the spates were being finalised.
Kingussie Walkfest 2016 will on Saturday (May 14) take anyone interested on a guided Gynack Hydro tour.
Heavy rains last week again reminded down on Gynack Road just how quickly things can change with the river charging through the town and under the Highland Main Line.
Even with only a slight snow thaw in the Monadhliaths and one heavy cloudburst, the waters were again lapping the railway bridge near the High School, a crossing which has seen so much disruption over recent winters.
As walkers will see at the weekend, there are big plans taking place up on Pitmain Estate to both exploit the energy potential of the floods and to control them, thus offering Kingussie itself an easier time in future winters.
Walk organiser Ian Moffatt told the Strathy: “We’re going to take a circular stroll around Loch Gynack which will include the official opening of a new path which should enhance the experience for all those who enjoy getting off the beaten track.
“The trip will include visits to the estate facilities and the splendid new Kingussie Community Hydro scheme as well. People will be able to see for themselves just what is being done to make the most of the energy potential. All the projections for our hydro scheme have been borne out and we’ve had a highly successful first year.”
Pitmain is currently awaiting the go-ahead for its new plans to increase its control over the outflow of water from the loch and walkers will be given an idea of just how they plan to do it.
Saturday’s walk will take in some six miles, starting at Ardvonie Car Park at 10am. It will finish at Kingussie Golf Clubhouse at about 1.30pm, where the restaurant will be open.
A video of the town’s hydro plant construction and commissioning will be shown and tours of the powerhouse will take place from 2.30pm, with information on the proposed flood alleviation scheme being displayed.
Said Mr Moffatt: “The walk’s on paths and tracks but it may be rough and muddy in places so stout walking shoes or boots are essential.
“Considering the watery subject of this year’s Walkfest a good waterproof jacket is strongly recommended!”
And the organisers are stressing that, with lambs about up the hill, dogs are not being invited this year.
