Visitors to Glenmore Forest are being urged to respect safety barriers after people attempted to enter areas still closed following the recent wildfire.
Forestry and Land Scotland issued the warning as recovery work continues across Glenmore, where dangerous trees, unstable ground and remaining hotspots continue to present serious risks.
The wider area reopened on 7 August, but significant sections of the forest remain closed while damaged ground is assessed and made safe.
The latest concern arose when banksmen working alongside machinery clearing bulldozed and unsafe standing trees encountered young people attempting to enter a restricted area.
They were strongly advised to turn back for their own safety and that of contractors and Forestry and Land Scotland staff working nearby.
Walkers and mountain bikers have also disregarded signs and fencing and attempted to enter closed sections of the forest.
Forestry and Land Scotland North Region Manager Alex Macleod said:
“Thanks to the phenomenal effort from everyone involved, Glenmore is beginning to pick up some momentum in its recovery and that is very welcome.
“However, areas of Glenmore Forest will be off limits for some weeks to come while we address the remaining public safety issues.
“We will be felling dangerous trees, clearing bulldozed trees and repairing the tracks.
“This will involve chainsaw work and the use of heavy machinery.”
Forestry and Land Scotland is working with contractors and partners including Police Scotland to keep the public away from areas where recovery operations continue.
Warning signs have been placed at the main access points and maps showing the closed areas are available online.
Alex added:
“There is warning signage at the main access points to our forest and maps are available online that show the area that is closed for access.
“We would again urge everyone, for your own safety and for the safety of FLS staff and remaining emergency services workers, please do not go into this area or fly drones into this area.”
The Allt Ban and Allt Mor car parks remain closed, along with the Ryvoan Trail, including access to An Lochan Uaine, the Green Lochan, and the Lodge Trail.
Those closures are expected to remain in place for the foreseeable future while damage is assessed and remedial work carried out.
Loch Morlich, Lochside, Loch Morlich beach and the Hayfield and Sugarbowl car parks are open, along with the beach trail, Loch Morlich trail, Pine Knoll trail and beach toilets.
Visitors can also reach the summit of Meall a’ Bhuachaille from Glenmore Visitor Centre by returning along the same route, while hill access remains possible from Sugarbowl car park through the Chalamain Gap.
Many businesses in the area have reopened, but visitors are being encouraged to check before travelling.
Glenmore is recovering and welcoming people back, but the barriers still standing are there for a reason.
