River Tay Trip - Start
River Tay Trip - Night 1
Starting off at the western end of the loch we have a quick kit check and get packed before covering emergency procedures. We will also cover some basic canoe skills to get us moving with a little more efficiency. Off we head down the fabulous loch taking in the vistas of the Lawlers mountain range to the north, heading for the small village of Killin where we check out the 5,000yr old crannog before putting camp up for the night.
After breakfast, we get packed and ready to tackle some of the white water on the river, after navigating 'Chinese falls' and some excitement later we make our way down through majestic Strath Tay soaking up the views with a few more sections of white water before we arrive at Grantully. With an option to run the main rapid if people wished with a chance to dry off at the nearby camp in case of any unexpected soakings!
We get packed up and start meandering our way down towards the town of Dunkled where we pass the confluence of the River Tummel. There is a very impressive bridge built in the 16th century by General Wade which still doesn't have a weight limit!
After breakfast, we get boats packed and back on the river, paddling under some impressive bridge structures before making our way down towards camp for the night where there was formally a Roman Fort and the worlds largest hedge!
The last day where we head past Scone Palace, this is where all new Kings are knighted and are brought into power. Just downstream is our finish at the sandstone bridge in the beautiful town of Perth.
We finish organising equipment and if we have time grab a coffee and well deserved cake!
Includes complete kit list, daily mileage charts, and meeting point coordinates for offline access.
Perfect for individuals with some experience who want to take their skills to the next level. These sessions include more physically engaging activities and may cover varied terrain or conditions, offering a mix of challenge and reward. Expect a balance of skill development and adventure.
No prior experience is required. These sessions focus on learning the basics, so you can enjoy the experience even if it’s your first time. From understanding the gear to mastering essential techniques, we’ll ensure you feel prepared and comfortable.
If you book solo we will provide a tent to have your own sleeping space. If you book as part of a group/pair then we would provide either 2 or 3 man tents to share.
Yes! Around 40% of people book as solo travellers.
Absolutely - try and give the guide as much notice as possible of any dietary requirements. You can do this when completing your participation form after booking.
All of our staff hold the relevant qualifications and substantial experience for any courses that you book with us here at Scottish Rock & Water. We can provide any relevant certifications upon request.
While it's not legally required, we strongly recommend that you secure comprehensive travel/activity insurance before your trip to Scotland. Our courses involve outdoor adventures where weather conditions or unforeseen events could cause cancellations or prevent attendance. Having insurance ensures that you're financially protected if these situations arise. For example, many adventurers opt for specialized coverage such as Sports Cover Direct's offerings for canoe holidays or winter climbing, and the British Mountaineering Council also provides tailored policies for mountaineering activities. We encourage you to review these options and choose a policy that best suits your needs for peace of mind during your adventure.
Yes, you can secure your course/trip with a deposit. We only require a 25% deposit to reserve your position, with the full payment due 30 days prior to the start date.
Yes! You can use our fast checkout option to secure your spot without adding participant details. All we need is your name and email to send the confirmation.
Need to swap dates, change participant details, or ask technical kit questions? Our instructors are on hand to assist.
Want dedicated 1:1 instruction or exclusive guiding for your party on guided descent of the river tay? Choose your target dates, customize the daily objectives, and enjoy 100% guide focus.
Canoes, camping kit, and dry barrels are included. The guide handles the route, the food stops, and the pace.
We’re a very small, family-run business built on a love for Scotland’s wild places. Unlike big providers, we focus on personal connections, tailored experiences, and a deep commitment to the landscapes we work in. When you book with us, you're supporting a passionate local team who truly care about your experience.
We’re committed to protecting the landscapes we love. Unlike providers who put profit first, we focus on responsible guiding, conservation, and a leave-no-trace ethos. When you book with us, you’re supporting sustainable tourism and helping preserve Scotland’s wild places for future generations.
We keep our group sizes small to provide a personal and tailored experience. Whether it’s your first time in the mountains or you’re a seasoned adventurer, we take the time to understand your goals and adapt each course to suit your needs.
Sure, you can find the well-trodden routes in a book—but we take you beyond the usual paths. With our deep local knowledge, we’ll guide you to hidden ridges, quiet valleys, and secret spots that make every adventure feel truly unique.
What other groups say about the rivers, the camps, and the days in the canoe.
Packing, rivers, and how a multi-day paddle in Scotland actually runs.
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When you paddle the Hårkan River in central Sweden, you're not just on a canoe trip—you're moving through some of the most pristine wilderness Scandinavia has to offer. Vast forests meet clear water, the only sounds are...
Not sure which river suits the group, or what a wild camp on the bank involves? Talk to the guides who paddle these trips.
Gift vouchers
A voucher from £50, posted to you and valid for three years. It can go toward a course, a private day, or winter kit hired for that trip.
