Hazard on River Spey - Downstream of Fochabers
July 22, 2022
Hazard on the lower River Spey, located one mile downstream of Fochabers.
Research, planning, observation, and dynamic decision making are needed for all river descents.
Please be aware of a particularly dangerous hazard on the lower River Spey, approximately 1 mile downstream of Fochabers bridge, at the entry to the Quarry Pool.
Location coordinates: 57°37'52.8"N 3°06'14.8"W
Click the button below to see the location of the hazard.
The hazard is in the left channel. The hazard consists of large dead tree root and overhanging willow trees under which the current passes.
To avoid the hazard:
- ½ mile after Fochabers bridge there is a fishing hut on the left (west) bank
- Keep to the right of the river after this fishing hut
- Approx. ½ mile after the fishing hut, 30 foot high terracotta coloured cliffs come into view (river left). The ‘main flow’ of the river turns left towards the cliffs.
- Do NOT take the channel to the left (named ‘the Spout’). The main flow on this channel draws one towards a large tree root, then straight under thick, low, overhanging willow trees
- Instead, stay well right, to avoid being pulled into the Spout. Continue straight ahead into a shallow channel ~ not immediately visible from upstream, but navigable in most, even low water, conditions. This channel takes one to the downstream end of the terracotta cliff, and safety, avoiding the dangerous corner leading into the Quarry Pool
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