Home / Environment / Nature's Scar: Wild Campers Threaten Glencoe's Lost Valley
Nature's Scar: Wild Campers Threaten Glencoe's Lost Valley
18 May
Summary
- Wild campers are damaging Coire Gabhail's fragile soils with fires.
- Ancient trees are being cut and burned by visitors.
- Rubbish is left behind, harming the rare plant life and biodiversity.
Coire Gabhail, a special scientific interest site in Glencoe known as the 'Lost Valley', is under threat from irresponsible wild campers. This natural wonder, attracting 100,000 visitors annually, is suffering significant damage. Fires lit by campers leave deep scars on its shallow, fragile mountain soils, a lasting mark on the landscape.
Furthermore, ancient trees and valuable deadwood are being cut and burned, a form of vandalism that harms the valley's unique biodiversity. Rangers recently discovered a 300-year-old willow tree damaged and its charred remains found at a fire site. Visitors are also leaving behind substantial amounts of rubbish.
The National Trust for Scotland is urging visitors to take responsibility. They recommend carrying spare bags for litter and reporting individuals seen with axes. Rangers and volunteers will patrol throughout the summer to address these issues and educate visitors on how their cumulative actions can ruin the valley's delicate ecosystem.
