Recent gold mining exploration has occurred in one of the river's glens just outside the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

[2] After a run of 10 miles (16 kilometres), in which it receives the waters of several large burns, it expands into Loch Tulla.

Prior to that, the river banks were protected, and the Orchy ran through Dalmally Vale through a narrow channel.

As of 1884, the fields on the northern river bank extended farther south; and shingle island was a narrow strip of gravel with a small stream.

[5] The falls of the Orchy are about 7 mi (11 km) from Dalmally, and are about 20 feet (6 metres) in height, forming almost a sheer drop.

[5] Glenorchy Parish Church and the burial place of the Macgregors are located on an islet formed by the river; the well of Saint Conan is nearby.

[16] In 2010, gold mining exploration began in a River Orchy glen, approximately 5 km (3 mi) outside the Lomond National Park.

[18] Environmental concerns about possible gold mining were raised due to the area's proximity to both the national park and Beinn Udlaidh, a popular climbing marilyn.