Slochd Viaduct

The Slochd Mhuic Railway Viaduct stands in a stunning location high above the Allt Slochd Mhuic.

The granite viaduct contains eight round-headed arches, which were designed by Murdoch Paterson to accommodate the railway line between Inverness and Aviemore.

The viaduct holds a single railway track and stands over 33m in height above the waters of Allt Slochd Mhuic and the heavily wooded gorge.

It was opened on 19 July 1897, the year before the line was opened.

The line from Inverness to Aviemore opened in 1898, providing a shorter journey than going via Forres.

After leaving Tomatin, the line climbs to 401m above sea level near the Slochd summit, which is the second highest point of the railway in Scotland, and is only 2km north of the viaduct. This is second only to the Drumochter Pass which is 460m above sea level and just over 60km south of here.

In 2018, AmcoGiffen carried out major structural conservation work on the viaduct, installing 32 full-length spandrel ties, repairing numerous weep holes, and carrying out masonry repairs and structural refurbishment.

I was hoping to get some shots from below the viaduct, but the steep-sided wooded gorge made it too dangerous. This is a job for the electronic member of the Fabulous North team, the drone, Red5. Maybe Simon will bring him for a visit?

There is a large parking area next to the viaduct, which is the starting point of the 12.5km Inverlaidnan Loop if you fancy it. The route visits Sluggan Bridge and Archer's Stone on a beautiful walk.

The Slochd Viaduct is a Category B Listed Building with Historic Environment Scotland.