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The RSPB manage the Peatlands Visitor Centre, located at Forsinard railway station on the A897. The visitor centre, open 7 days a week (09.00-18.00) between April and October, provides a range of informative displays on the peatlands and peatland wildlife. 

The nearby dubh-lochan trail provides an opportunity to view bog pools and some of the more common peatland birds. Reserve staff lead guided walks on the reserve between May and August (Tuesdays and Saturdays). For further details, please contact the reserve (Tel. 01641 571225).

Between March and July, peatland birds such as Hen Harrier, Merlin, Golden Plover, Dunlin and Short-eared Owl can often be seen from the A897 both to the north and south of Forsinard. For best results, find a safe place to park and use your car as a hide. Peatland birds are more active early in the morning and just before dusk. Many peatland birds are susceptible to disturbance, particularly during the breeding season (April, May and June).

If you want to venture further, please contact the reserve staff before doing so in order that your route is known. 

Note that dogs are not permitted on the reserve.

As a general rule, you are more likely to see birds if you sit down and wait. Try to avoid wandering about, particularly near small peatland lochs where you may disturb waterfowl with nests or young. If you do disturb a bird from a nest or are aware of birds alarming around you, please move away to a safe distance (e.g. birds cease alarming over you).