Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk

The Cairn Gorm and Northern Corries Walk is a superb hillwalk and one that those looking for a true challenge will find their match in! During the summer months, on a clear day, the trail is relatively straightforward; that being said, beware of pathless sections and high exposure if you’re walking in non-ideal conditions. The trail runs close to cliff edges at times, so caution and care should always be taken on this walk. If tackling this hill during the winter months, exceptional navigational skills are recommended and adequate equipment, such as crampons and an ice-axe.

Cairn Gorm (4081ft) is a hillwalk you’ll find on most must-do lists for experienced hillwalkers in Scotland. The formidable hill is undoubtedly the most famous mountain in the Cairngorms range, and its unique rock architecture and fine views from atop the summit make it a challenge well-worth taking on.

To begin the Cairn Gorm and Northern Corries Walk, you’ll bypass the most common route of ascent, which follows The Windy Ridge Path, and instead, head west via the steps to cross the bridge. Spot the path on the far side, which leads up some further steps before bending across the moor to join another path. When you reach a fork, stick to the lower path on your right hand side, which leads across the Allt Coire an t-Sneachda.

After crossing a stream, continue on the path, which soon leads to the expansive ridge of Miadan Creag an Leth-Choin. Enjoy the views as you continue to rise, with the gulf of Coire an Lochain soon coming into view on your left. Press on towards the col found between Lurcher’s Crag and mighty Ben Macdui. From the Col, you’ll capture the incredible scenes over Sròn an Lairige and out across Lairig Ghru. Continue as if heading for Ben Madcui, but depart from this path to join the fainter path that leads up towards sizeable stepping stones, guiding you across a boggy section. The going gets steeper and tougher as you continue to climb, headed for the Coire an Lochain’s eastern cliffs, which you’ll no doubt find breathtaking. Gain the plateau, soaking up the incredible views out towards Sgor an Lochain Uaine and Cairn Toul.

Minding the edge (which features a significant drop), continue on the path that leads towards Coire an Lochain’s rim. Two cairns mark the summit, and both are found close to the plateau edge with a significant fully separating them. If walking during winter months when snow is present, extreme caution must be exercised during this section, as fatal accidents have occurred under bad winter conditions. Follow the plateau edge all the way to the northeast, where you’ll unlock sensational views of the corrie below.

With the adrenaline flowing, continue the path 1312ft as it leaves the edge and heads down across the steep slopes, veering slightly south of east. The route draws close to the cliffs again as you continue up the opposite slopes, with superb views of the corrie accompanying you the whole way. Press on to reach the top of Stob Coire an t-Sneachda and stick to the path that rounds the rim of the cliffs to the left.

As the summit of Cairngorm nears, continue eastwards up the rocky slopes with your sights set on reaching the fine cairn that sits atop the summit. Arrive at the summit, where you’ll also find an old weather station, and revel in the marvellous views as you celebrate your arrival at 4081ft.

To descend, join the path that leads northwards, heading towards the Ptarmigan station building of the funicular railway. Please note that the station is currently closed due to technical issues, so you won’t find any life around here at the moment. Continue downhill, passing on the right hand side of the Ptarmigan building to pick up the wide path with signs for the “Windy Ridge Path.” At a fork, keep right and continue to walk across a ski-run, then veer left next to the second snow fence. With views of Loch Morlich opening up ahead, enjoy the final stretch of the walk on the apparent path that leads down the expansive ridge of Sron an Aonaich. The path soon bears left and continues downhill at a steeper angle until you reach the funicular located just above the lower station. Make a right onto the path to bypass the construction work going on, then head down the steps above the ski centre to return to the car park where the walk began.

Other Great Walks in Cairngorms National Park

Check out our trail guides to Ben Magdui, Loch Muick, Ben Vrackie, Loch an Eilein, and the Mount Keen Walk. Or see all of our Cairngorms walks.