Roam West White Water

Roam West White Water

Our Top 5 White Water Rivers near Roam West

As the temperature drops slightly and the rain becomes more consistent we look ahead to another white water season.  We welcome boaters from all over the Uk every year making Roam West their base while enjoying the highland white water offerings.  

We are specialists in catering groups and clubs, as outdoor lovers we know what it takes for a great stay and we are always happy to advise on local conditions.

Last season our annual visitors from Manchester Canoe Club had great water levels, The Cardiff International White water Kids Academy had a blast making full use of conditions and our drying room! 

https://www.ciww.com/blog/2025/01/28/the-kids-academy-strikes-back/

We are also honoured each year to welcome the Palm Equipment Team staying at Roam West on their UK Park Jam Tour.  

https://youtu.be/MWwwdMTNO5Y?si=16FKEUMu2OZgzz5_

If you're an avid white-water boater seeking an unforgettable adventure base, look no further than Roam West, Inchree. Nestled in a prime location, our lodge provides easy access to some of the best white-water rivers in the highlands. Here, we explore the top five local rivers—each offering unique challenges for the grade 3 - 4 boater along with stunning scenery and local points of interest.

We have not gone into any detail regarding each stretch of river, we advise you research your guidebooks for the area or better still get a guide!  We are always happy to point you in the right direction of paddle guides who are experienced and suitably qualified.

Image - Jess Phillips

So here we go, our Top 5 Classics in the local area.

River Orchy

Grade: III-V  

Put In: Bridge at Bridge of Orchy  

Get Out: Above the village of Dalmally  

Best Water Levels: Ideal at 0.8 - 1.6 m (on the gauge at Bridge of Orchy)  

The River Orchy is renowned for its challenging rapids and beautiful surroundings. Suitable for experienced paddlers, the section from Bridge of Orchy to Dalmally features fantastic features from long sweeping grade 3 rapids to more complex drops grade 4 plus.  Its a fine day out with an easy shuttle along the B road through the Glen.  We love this river in October when water levels are normally great and the trees are changing colour to Autumnal brown.

River Roy

Grade: IV   

Put In: Above Roy Bridge  

Get Out: Near the village of Fort William  

Best Water Levels: Best between 0.5 and 1.5 m  

The River Roy offers two different sections Upper and Lower.  The Upper section being more suitable to the grade 4 boater while the Lower section a fun grade 3.  This river is excellent for intermediate paddlers looking to progress their skills in a stunning Highland setting. At the get out there is a cool little cafe open through the weekends. Take the time to visit the Commando Memorial, which pays tribute to the elite military unit trained in the area.

Image - Jess Phillips

River Spean and Spean Gorge

Grade: III-V  

Put In: Near the A86 road bridge above Spean Bridge  

Get Out: Take-out point at the last bridge before the village of Torlundy  

Best Water Levels: Optimal levels are between 0.8 and 1.4 m  

For those seeking a diverse experience, the River Spean and its gorge will not disappoint. With a mixture of grades, the Spean provides challenging sections interspersed with calmer waters, making it a great choice for a range of skill levels.  The Spean drop into Spean Gorge below Spean Bridge, this section is recommend for competent boaters and escape is challenging and the gorge is committing with grade 4 rapids throughout. The surrounding area boasts rich cultural heritage, including nearby ancient monuments and historic sites related to the Jacobite Risings.

Andy Kettlewell

River Etive

Grade: IV-V  

 Put In: At the bridge in Dalness  

Get Out: At the bridge in the village of Etive  

Best Water Levels: Ideal at 1.0 - 1.5 m  

The River Etive is another favourite among white-water enthusiasts. The rapids mainly consist of waterfalls can provide full-on excitement, recommended for the experienced boater.  However, the lower section offering one noticeable rapid then leads into the opening Glen where you will be sure to see deer. The dramatic scenery, with towering cliffs and lush vegetation, makes it a feast for the eyes as well, with the towering munro ether side.

River Arkaig

Grade: III-IV   

Put In: Near the dam at the head of Loch Arkaig  

Get Out: Near the village of Invershiel  

Best Water Levels: Ideal between 0.5 – 1.0 m  

The River Arkaig provides a mix of fun rapids and serene stretches ideal for taking in the natural beauty of the area. It is suitable for confident intermediates, there is one main notable rapid however the rest of the river is incredibly scenic and stunning. Take the chance to visit the historic site of Glen Dessarry or enjoy the local wildlife along the riverbanks while paddling.

Why Choose Roam West Inchree for Your Paddling Adventure?

Staying at Roam West Inchree is the perfect choice for white-water paddlers seeking both comfort and convenience. Our facilities include a drying room to ensure your gear is ready for the next day’s adventure, as well as en-suite rooms that provide a comfortable place to rejuvenate. Our large shared kitchen allows for group meals and camaraderie, while our expansive car park ensures easy access for all types of vehicles.

Additionally, the onsite pub and restaurant provide a cozy atmosphere for relaxation and recovery after a day on the water. Our knowledgeable staff is also available to offer local insights, ensuring you make the most of your paddling experience.

Paddle Safety in White Water

Safety is paramount in white-water paddling. As emphasised by Paddle Scotland, every paddler should have a thorough understanding of the river, its conditions, and inherent risks. Before embarking on any paddling journey, ensure you are equipped with appropriate safety gear, including a personal flotation device (PFD) and a helmet. It is essential to assess the water levels, weather conditions, and your own skill levels. Always paddle with a buddy or group and communicate effectively. Remember that swift water can be unpredictable, so remain vigilant and prepared for any changes in conditions.

Plan your next white-water adventure with Roam West Inchree as your base, and experience the exhilaration of the Highlands' rivers. An unforgettable experience awaits you!

Drop us a line for group stays as we cater for clubs and groups.