Cairn of Gowal Loop

While there are certainly shorter and easier walking routes in Cairngorms National Park, you will be hard-pressed to find a more scenic adventure than the Cairn of Gowal Loop. Featuring a lengthy overall distance, rugged mountain terrain, and views that sweep across the park, this route will certainly make for an action-packed day on the trails.

Setting out from the car park, you will make your way through the glen to the north, following along the banks of the River South Esk as it snakes through the valley and leads you uphill to the northwest. Here, you will continue further uphill to traverse the summits of Broad Cairn, Cairn of Gowal, and Cairn Bannoch, all while taking in the beautifully scenic views overlooking Loch Muick and Dubh Loch.

Reaching the northernmost point of the route, the trail will bend to the south across Fafernie, traversing the rugged mountain landscape to visit the Munros of Tolmount and Tom Buidhe. From the summit of this last hill, you will make your way into the glen to the southeast where you will meet the banks of White Water. Following the edge of the river, you will pass through the serene expanse of Glendoll Forest and eventually arrive back at the car park where you began your walk.