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 rough mountain path most of the way, with short stretches of road and track in the ski area. The path climbs through the ski area onto the upper slopes and reaches the stony summit of Cairn Gorm (1,245 m), topped by an automatic weather station.
It is 7.3 km with 612 m of ascent; allow about 4 hours. The grade is Moderate, but the summit is on the edge of the high Cairngorm plateau, which has some of the strongest winds recorded in Britain. In mist the plateau has few landmarks, so you need map, compass and the skill to use them, the mountain forecast and the judgement to turn back. In winter this is a serious mountain outing needing ice axe, crampons and experience. 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 railway 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
- Weather station on the summit
- Arctic plateau conditions: some of the strongest winds recorded in Britain
- Start from the ski area car park
Summits on the way
- Cairn Gorm 1,245 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.
