Black wood of Rannoch

The Black Wood of Rannoch is an ancient forest of native Scots Pine trees spread along the southern shore of Loch Rannoch, with individual trees reaching several centuries in age. The woodland grows densely with varied tree sizes and ground vegetation, creating a complex layered habitat.

The woodland faced potential destruction plans during World War I but was spared from complete clearing, though sections were logged for timber during World War II. The forest has since recovered through natural regeneration in many areas.

The forest holds significance in Scottish understanding of how natural woodlands develop and sustain themselves over generations. Visitors and locals value it as a place where nature's processes remain largely unmanaged and visible.

The forest can be explored using well-maintained trails at Carie that suit various walking speeds and fitness levels. Visitors should prepare for changeable weather and uneven ground typical of woodland walking.

The woodland supports numerous ant colonies that maintain symbiotic relationships with aphids, demonstrating intricate ecological connections within the ecosystem. These interactions between ants and aphids form part of food chains that sustain many forest creatures.