River Sgitheach

The River Sgitheach rises on the southern slopes of Ben Wyvis in Ross and Cromarty, Highland. It flows south for about 21 kilometres through Strath Sgitheach, passing woodlands and the village of Evanton. Near the end it meets the Cromarty Firth, where the remains of an old salmon bothy stand on the beach.

The river keeps its name from the Gaelic word for hawthorn, reflecting the thorny shrubs once common along its banks. Five bridges cross the water, including the A9 main road bridge and a wooden footbridge close to the sea. A treatment plant lies between the A9 and the shore, showing how the river serves local needs.

Visitors walk the paths beside the water, watching the current where it narrows at traditional fords. The river’s modest flow still makes crossing tricky in summer when levels drop. Nearby, the ruined bothy and the old distillery name remind walkers of the area’s past uses.