Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The walk
The walk starts from the car park in the centre of Braemar, just off the A93 on the Linn of Dee road. It crosses the A93 and goes up the lane beside the church into the woods, where a signpost points left for Creag Choinnich. The path climbs very steeply through the pines, past a bench, and becomes rocky for the last pull, passing a lower outcrop before the cairn on the true summit. Return the same way.
It is 2.7 km (1.7 miles) with 194 m (640 ft) of ascent; allow about 1½ hours. The grade is Easy by time, but the climb is relentless.
The hill stands right above the village, and the top gives a fine view down the winding Dee towards Balmoral, with Lochnagar above it and Invercauld to the left. To the north, Beinn a' Bhùird and the granite tors of Ben Avon rise above the forest.
The path is good but steep, and rocky near the top: take care coming down in the wet. The Lion's Face and Cromlins path in the same woods makes an easy addition on the way back.
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
- A short, very steep climb through the pines to a rocky top above Braemar
- Views down the Dee towards Balmoral, with Lochnagar beyond
- The granite tors of Ben Avon show to the north
Summits on the way
- Creag Choinnich 538 m
Getting there
Start: Braemar village car park · Free parking. 57.00552, -3.39839
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.
