Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The walk
The walk starts from the Coire Cas car park at the Cairngorm ski area and goes out and back. It is on path almost all the way, partly rough mountain path. The path climbs south-west out of the ski area onto the high, stony plateau, then heads south across it to the summit of Ben Macdui (1,309 m), the second highest mountain in Britain.
It is 16.3 km with 754 m of ascent; allow about 6 hours. The grade is Hard. Much of the walk is on the open plateau, where the weather can change quickly and there is little shelter. In mist the plateau has few landmarks and navigation is serious, so you must be confident with map and compass, check the mountain forecast and be ready to turn back. In winter the plateau is arctic and only for experienced parties. There are no mapped water sources on the route.
The Coire Cas car park is at the top of the ski road above Glenmore, and parking charges apply. Aviemore station is about 11 km away.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- Britain's second highest mountain
- A long crossing of the high Cairngorm plateau
- Navigation on the plateau in mist is serious; there is little shelter
Summits on the way
- Ben Macdui [Beinn Macduibh] 1,309 m
Getting there
Start: Coire Cas Car Park · Pay and display. 57.13512, -3.67133
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around Aviemore: Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.
