
Dochgarroch Lock
1-2 hoursCruise departures
This hub sits at the head of Loch Dochfour, leading directly into Loch Ness. It is a popular location for waterside walks. You can use this lock as a starting point for boat cruises down the loch.

Explore
The northern stretch of the Caledonian Canal flows from Loch Ness directly into the Highland capital.
This section connects the inland lochs to the sea at the Beauly Firth. The full canal spans 60 miles (96.5 km) from coast to coast, ending here in Inverness.
Visitors often start at Dochgarroch Lock before heading into the city. You can walk the towpaths for free or watch boats complete their multi-day transits.

1-2 hoursCruise departures
This hub sits at the head of Loch Dochfour, leading directly into Loch Ness. It is a popular location for waterside walks. You can use this lock as a starting point for boat cruises down the loch.

1 hourLess than 1 mile to center
This busy marina sits less than one mile from the Inverness City Centre. Yachts arrive here from the sea before starting their cross-country transit. Stop by to watch crews prepare their vessels for the journey.

45 minutesRail bridge crossing
This is the final lock on the eastern side. Here, the canal connects with the sea at the Beauly Firth. Watch for the operational rail bridge crossing the waterway at this point.
