Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve

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A breathtaking glacial amphitheatre in Scotland’s Cairngorms, rich in rare alpine flora and dramatic natural beauty.

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Corrie Fee

Nestled near Kirriemuir in Scotland, Corrie Fee is a stunning glacial amphitheatre renowned for its dramatic geology, rare arctic-alpine flora, and diverse wildlife. This National Nature Reserve offers scenic trails through ancient forests and rugged uplands, with opportunities for hillwalking, wildlife spotting, and winter climbing. Visitors can explore the Fee Burn, admire alpine flowers, and experience the wild beauty of the Cairngorms National Park.

A brief summary to Corrie Fee

Kirriemuir, GB
Click to display
Duration: 1 to 6 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit between mid-June and mid-August to see the alpine flowers in full bloom.
Wear sturdy walking boots and bring waterproof clothing; mountain weather changes rapidly.
Allow extra time if hiking beyond the main trail to the Cairngorm plateau for a more challenging experience.
Use the visitor reception at Angus Glens Ranger Base for informative displays and local walking guides.
Parking at Glen Doll requires a small fee; Blue Badge holders park free.

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Getting There

Car

From Kirriemuir, drive approximately 12 miles north via the B955 and minor roads to Glen Doll car park. Parking costs around £2 per day, payable by card or coins, with free parking for Blue Badge holders. The car park serves as the trailhead for Corrie Fee.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Kirriemuir to Glen Doll youth hostel near the car park, approximately 18 miles from the reserve entrance. Service frequency is limited and does not operate on Sundays. From the hostel, the reserve is accessible on foot.
Walking

For experienced hikers, the Cateran Trail offers a circular route around Glen Clova, connecting to Corrie Fee. Walking in from Glenshee is possible but requires good fitness and preparation for rough terrain, taking several hours.

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Restrooms
Picnic Areas
Information Boards

Corrie Fee location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Cold Weather
Mild Temperatures
Snow

Discover more about Corrie Fee

A Glacial Masterpiece Carved by Ice

Corrie Fee is a vast natural amphitheatre shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age around 12,000 years ago. The retreating ice carved deep corries, cliffs, moraines, and a meandering river that now define this dramatic landscape. The sweeping bowl of Corrie Fee, with its steep craggy slopes and rugged terrain, remains a striking testament to Scotland’s glacial past. The geological formations here are a key reason for its designation as a National Nature Reserve within the Cairngorms National Park.

Botanical Riches of an Arctic-Alpine Haven

This reserve is celebrated for its rare alpine and arctic plants, many of which cling to the corrie’s rocky slopes. Between mid-June and mid-August, the valley bursts into color with delicate blue milkwort, sunshine-yellow tormentil, and frothy yellow alpine lady’s mantle. Purple coltsfoot, unique to this location in Britain, can be spotted on the crags. The Fee Burn, tumbling with white bubbles or winter ice, winds through the valley floor, nurturing this botanical paradise.

Wildlife and Natural Sounds

Corrie Fee supports a variety of wildlife, including golden eagles and peregrine falcons soaring above the cliffs. Red deer are often seen on the slopes, especially during autumn when stags roar to establish dominance. The sounds of bubbling water, birdcalls, and rustling vegetation create a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere that immerses visitors in the natural world.

Trails and Visitor Experience

The main Corrie Fee Trail stretches about 5 km, beginning at the Glen Doll car park and ascending gently to the edge of the forest, offering spectacular views into the corrie. For the adventurous, a steeper unmarked path continues through the reserve and climbs 670 meters to the Cairngorm plateau, suitable for experienced hillwalkers equipped for mountain conditions. Informative signposts and a visitor reception at the Angus Glens Ranger Base provide insights into the reserve’s ecology and history.

Seasonal Considerations and Accessibility

The reserve is accessible year-round, though weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Visitors should prepare for sudden sleet or snow from autumn through spring. Facilities include 24-hour public toilets and picnic areas near the car park. Parking requires a small fee, with free access for Blue Badge holders. The area is best explored with sturdy footwear and appropriate outdoor clothing.

Conservation and Significance

Managed by NatureScot, Corrie Fee is protected for its geological significance, rare plant species, and wildlife habitat. It exemplifies the wild, rugged beauty of the Angus Glens and serves as a vital natural refuge within the Cairngorms National Park. The reserve’s combination of dramatic scenery, ecological importance, and recreational opportunities make it a treasured destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.