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Cairngorms National Park

Walks in Cairngorms National Park

Activities in Cairngorms National Park

Revel in sub-Alpine terrain and an unruly mountainscape in Scotland's supernatural Cairngorms National Park, where endless adventure awaits. One of the best ways to immerse in the wild and experience the natural wonders stretching across the United Kingdom's largest national park is via foot. That's right. There are some epic walks in the Cairngorms!

But one of the best things about exploring this area is Scotland's rule around wild camping: you can walk to a magical location and set your tent up lochside, on a hilltop, or in any unenclosed space in the park. The walks in this area are unreal, and we'll tell you all about some of the best below!

What to know about hiking in the Cairngorms in 2024?

2024 will see some changes in the Cairngorms National Park. The Atholl Community Trails have been introduced, featuring six different trails ranging from 1.5 to 4 miles. These paths lead through picturesque woods to notable spots like Witches Rock and Wishing Well, providing a gentle yet enriching hiking experience perfect for all ages.
Also, several popular trails within the park have received upgrades to improve accessibility and safety. This includes better signage and maintained paths to ensure hikers can enjoy the stunning landscapes safely and comfortably. Trails that underwent the upgrades:

  • The Speyside Way: This trail saw improvements in its footpath conditions and signage, making it more accessible for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
  • The Glenlivet Estate Trails: These trails underwent enhancements to increase safety and improve wayfinding, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for all visitors.
  • The Balmoral Cairns Trail: Updates here included trail resurfacing and the installation of new informational signage about the historical significance of the area.

The Greatest Walks In Cairngorms National Park

Where do you even start when it comes to walking in Cairngorms National Park? You can find a range of walks tailored for whatever you want to experience, whether that's community walks, taking on a Munro (mountains that are 914 m feet high or more), heritage trails embroidered with history, hill tracks carved deep into the wilderness. Check out a list of the greatest walks in the Cairngorms below to choose an adventure that caters to your adventure mood!

  • Ben Macdui and Cairngorm Walk - The Ben Macdui and Cairngorm Walk is one of the most challenging walks in the national park as it leads you to the summit of Scotland's second-highest mountain! Bask in fantastic views of the Cairngorm Plateau before taking on the final climb to the top. It is definitely worth taking on if you want a challenge.
  • Loch Muick Circular Walk - The Loch Muick Circular Walk intertwines history with the natural wonders sprawled across the national park. You'll get to explore the Balmoral Estate on the walk, which the royal family bought in 1852. However, this 12.5 km loop takes in several highlights while staying at a minimal elevation gain, making this fun for families with older children.
  • Ben Vrackie Walk - Gain 787 m in elevation in just 10.0 km on the Ben Vrackie Walk! However, despite the daunting, challenging elevation gain, this hillwalk unveils unreal views across the national park and follows a well-worn path. If you’re staying in Pitlochry, you’ll definitely want to do this walk!
  • Loch an Eilein Walk - Walk below a canopy of pines lining the Rothiemurchus Forest and admire their reflection shimmering in Loch an Eilein on this 7.0 km walk! The Loch an Eilein Walk is a popular route for almost all ages. But while Loch an Eilein may be busy, you’ll also travel to Loch Gamhna, where a quieter shoreline awaits.
  • Mount Keen from Glen Esk Walk - Take on another challenging route in Cairngorms National Park. Completing the Mount Keen from Glen Esk Walk is no easy feat, but it always feels good to bag a Munro! This 17.5 km walk wavers between a worn-in hill path, steep sections, river crossings, and a quick glimpse of history at the Queen's Well. Revel in moorlands and phenomenal scenery on this walk!
  • Burn O' Vat and the Culblean Circular Walk - Immerse between pinewoods on the 6.5 km Burn O’ Vat and Culblean Circular Walk that leads to Ben O’Vat, a geological bowl. However, you will navigate stepping stones to see the bowl up close, making this more of a walk for older children.
  • Craigendarroch Walk - While this walk is only 4.0 km, the 315 m elevation packed into it will amp up your heart rate. If you're looking to take on some of the higher peaks in Cairngorms National Park, the Craigendarroch Walk is a great place to start—it's also an excellent choice for older children ready to tackle a summit walk. Bask in views of Lochnagar!
  • Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk - Starting at the Cairngorm Ski Centre, the Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk leads you up one of the most popular Scottish Munros: Cairn Gorm. One section is pathless, making this a fantastic adventure for experienced hillwalkers!
  • The Falls of Bruar Walk - Don’t let the 2.5 km distance propel you to think that the Falls of Bruar Walk is a pleasant, leisurely stroll! This walk may be short, but it will get your heart pumping, thanks to the undulations throughout. You will navigate a gorge edge, making this walk more suitable for older children who can stay vigilant when meandering this section. Bring a picnic along and spend some time soaking in the falls!
  • Morrone Walk - Looking for a scenic half-day adventure? The 12.0 km circular Morrane Walk unveils quality views of the Cairngorm peaks from the summit. On your way back, you’ll enjoy walking along the river, where you can cool down after a heart-pumping climb.

When Is The Best Time To Walk in Cairngorms National Park?

The best time to walk in Cairngorms National Park is during spring and summer when the weather is warmer. However, if you're looking to bag a Munro, summer is your go-to month as the longer light gives you more time to finish your walk!

Best Regions for Walking in Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find phenomenal walking opportunities all over Cairngorms National Park, but the best place to stay if you're looking to set up a base is Aviemore, a small town that acts as a gateway to several trails.

Other Outdoor Activities in Cairngorms National Park

Other outdoor activities in Cairngorms National Park are mountain biking and cycling, water sports, climbing, skiing and wild camping! Mountain bikers will enjoy the 64km of off-road tracks, and those keen on rafting, canoeing, river tubing, swimming will find a water source that suits their desired activity, whether that's more on the relaxing side or bent towards more thrill. Meanwhile, climbers in the south of the park will find routes around Creag Dubh Loch and Lochnagar in the southern Cairngorms, and those in the north will discover climbs around The Shelterstone Crag. When snow blankets the land, snowboarders and skiers can hit up any of the three ski resorts in the Cairngorms.

Cairngorms National Park Adventure Tours

Sometimes the best way to experience a beautiful area is by booking an adventure tour. If you want to explore the park with local guides, or on your own, but without the whole hassle of planning your own trip, check out the tours in Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people visit Cairngorms National Park?

Besides the world-class scenery flanking the area, Cairngorms National Park also boasts of exceptional wildlife, such as arctic reindeer and wildcats roaming the forests. Keep an eye out for golden eagles when you’re on your walks!

How many Munros are in Cairngorms National Park?

You’ll find 55 Munros standing at 914 m tall (or higher) standing tall across Cairngorms National Park. The highest Munro is Ben Macdui, which intimidates at 1,309 m.

Where should I stay when I visit Cairngorms National Park?

Most people head to Aviemore, a lovely small town bordered by incredible scenery. However, you can always look into wild camping throughout the park or one of the campsites that offer a more upscale wilderness experience. Some notable spots are Eriskay Ecocamp, Glamping Aviemore, Blair Castle, and Braemar Caravan and Camping. There are also lodges around the park!

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Route guides for Hiking in Cairngorms National Park

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Cairngorms National Park

Ben Macdui and Cairngorm Walk Route Guide

Strive to reach the summit (3058ft) of Scotland’s second-highest mountain on the gripping Ben Macdui and Cairngorm Walk in Aviemore, Scotland. The 10.9mi hillwalk is certainly not your average walk in the park, but for those seeking to conquer one of the more challenging hillwalks in Cairngorm National Park, this walk is for you! Featuring incredible views from the Cairngorm Plateau, wild river crossings and a triumphant final ascent across Ben Macdui’s northern flanks to reach the summit, this was packs a punch and if up for the challenge, you won’t want to miss it.
Very Hard
17.5 km
932 m
5.5-8h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Loch Muick Circular Walk Route Guide

The Loch Muick Circular Walk weaves history and the natural beauty of the Cairngorms National Park masterfully, inviting walkers to explore the grounds of the grand Balmoral Estate, purchased by the British royal family in 1852. The 7.8mi circular walk takes in the Glas-allt-Shiel, a lodge on the shores of Loch Muick, and several other highlights on the estate grounds, namely, the Balmoral Castle itself. Sound tracks and paths as well as a lack of elevation gain make this a suitable walk for families, as long as the wee ones can manage the distance.
Easy
12.5 km
170 m
2.5-4h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Ben Vrackie Walk Route Guide

Lording over the town of Pitlochry, which is nestled at its foot, sits Ben Vrackie (2759ft), a classified Scottish Corbett and makes for a cracking hillwalk in Cairngorms National Park. The 6.2mi walk can be done in under 4 hours and is a great way to seize some incredible views across the park following a well-worn path. The ascent is steep, but walkers will be well rewarded by the views from the summit. It’s a popular hillwalk in the area, particularly for those visiting or staying in the town of Pitlochry.
Hard
10.0 km
787 m
4-5.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Loch an Eilein Walk Route Guide

Escape to walk among the towering pines of the Rothiemurchus Forest and see their reflection on the dazzling waters of Loch an Eilein on the Loch an Eilein Walk. The 4.3mi trail is one of Scotland’s most popular, and for a good reason! Unfolding around the entire perimeter of the loch, this route also features a lovely extension to take in neighbouring Loch Gamhna, a quieter and less travelled shoreline. Great paths and lack of ascent make this a top choice for families looking to experience the beauty of Cairngorms National Park.
Easy
7.0 km
70 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Mount Keen from Glen Esk Walk Route Guide

The Mount Keen (3081ft) From Glen Esk Walk invites you to tackle the most easterly Munro with a thrilling ascent from Glen Esk. The 10.9mi walk unfolds on tracks and a well-worn hill path leading to the trig point at the summit, where you’ll uncover atypical views of sprawling moorlands instead of peaks. The route features some steep sections, a few river crossings, and a dose of history with a look at the Queen’s Well, where Queen Victoria stopped during one of her treks in the Angus glens by pony.
Hard
17.5 km
810 m
5.5-7.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Burn O’ Vat and Culblean Circular Walk Route Guide

The Burn O’ Vat and Culblean Circular Walk is a lovely 4.0mi forest trail that invites you to enjoy the beauty of the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve in Aboyne, Scotland. Pinewoods flank the trail that leads to the impressive Burn O’ Vat, a deep geological bowl that can be explored up-close via stepping stones. The walk is great for adults with older children who can manage the stone steps throughout the Burn O’Vat.
Easy
6.5 km
200 m
1.5-2.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Craigendarroch Walk Route Guide

The 4km Craigendarroch Walk in Ballater Scotland is a popular, small hillwalk that features fantastic views of the surrounding hills, most notably Lochnagar, whose corrie and cliffs are guaranteed to steal the show on a clear day! At 1319ft high, Craigendarroch may not be one of the tallest hills in the Cairngorms National Park, but it’s a challenging little hillwalk nonetheless, with some steep sections that are bound to get your heart rate going. This walk is an excellent choice for those looking to work towards tackling some of the park’s higher peaks and also for those walking with older children who are ready to take on a summit climb.
Easy
4.0 km
315 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk Route Guide

The Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk is a thrilling 6.8mi hillwalk, beginning at the Cairngorm Ski Centre in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park near Aviemore, Scotland. With an elevation of 4081ft (4084ft), Cairn Gorm is a classified Scottish Munro and is the most popular and most often-walked mountain in the Cairngorms range. Climbing Cairn Gorm is no small feat, and this walk is best reserved for experienced hillwalkers with a good set of navigational skills due to a significant pathless section.
Hard
11.0 km
775 m
4-5.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

The Falls of Bruar Walk Route Guide

At a mere 1.6mi, some may assume that The Falls Bruar Walk is just a short, leisurely stroll, but in truth, this short walk packs quite the punch! The hilly route consists of some steep sections that are sure to get the heart rate going while providing a nice little work-out for the legs. Due to the gorge edge featuring significant drops, this walk is best suited to adults walking with older children who can manage the steep inclines and remain vigilant when walking near the gorge edge. The route features a picnic area overlooking the falls, perfect for those looking to enjoy lunch while soaking up the marvellous scenery!
Easy
2.5 km
150 m
1h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Morrone Walk Route Guide

The Morrone Walk is a 7.5mi circular hillwalk located near Braemar, Scotland. This is the perfect way to soak up the incredible beauty of the Cairngorm peaks on a thrilling half-day excursion, and the views from the summit won’t disappoint! The return route features a lovely riverside stretch, providing the perfect cooldown following a relatively strenuous climb.
Moderate
12.0 km
650 m
4-5.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Linn of Dee Circular Walk Route Guide

The Linn of Dee Circular Walk is a pleasant walk that the whole family can enjoy. The 1.9mi route unfolds on clear paths and tracks with helpful waymarkers that make navigation a breeze. There is plenty to see on this relatively short walk, including the beautiful River Dee itself, a charming old stone bridge arched over the water, pretty pine woodlands, and a waterfall.
Very Easy
3.0 km
42 m
0.5-1h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Glen Tanar Walk Route Guide

The Glen Tanar Walk is a pleasant 8km waymarked route that unfolds on the Cairngorms south side near Aboyne. The easy trail follows scenic forest paths and tracks and is suitable for the whole family. Keep your eyes peeled on the walk for an array of wildlife, including red squirrels, crested tits, and if luck is on your side, even Capercaillie!
Very Easy
8.0 km
50 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Anagach Woods and the River Spey Walk Route Guide

The Anagach Woods and the River Spey Walk is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The trail immerses you in a world of towering Scots pinewood accompanied by the gentle flow of the River Spey. As one of the longer waymarked trails through Anagach Woods, this walk allows you to enjoy the tranquil forest as well as the peaceful riverbank of the River Spey.
Easy
11.5 km
250 m
2.5-4h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Balmoral Castle Walk Route Guide

The Balmoral Castle Walk is a wonderful family-friendly adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will take you around the grounds of Queen Elizabeth II’s Scottish estate. While out walking the trail, you will follow closely along the banks of the River Dee, before looping around Balmoral Castle to inspect its beautiful architecture. Walkers should take note that dogs are permitted at Balmoral Castle; however, they must be kept on a lead at all times.
Easy
2.6 km
39 m
0.5-1h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Blair Atholl and Glen Tilt Loop Route Guide

The Blair Atholl and Glen Tilt Loop is an awesome intermediate length walking route in Cairngorms National Park that will take you along a riverbank to explore a beautiful glen. While out walking the trail, you will traverse an atmospheric stretch of forest landscape, continuing along the winding banks of the River Tilt while taking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains. This is a fantastic excursion for casual and experienced walkers alike.
Moderate
14.8 km
795 m
5-6.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Meall Chuaich Walk Route Guide

The Meall Chuaich Walk is an exceptional adventure on the edge of Cairngorms National Park that will take you uphill for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along Allt Cuaich and pass by the shores of Loch Cuaich to reach the summit of Meall Chuaich, where you will have an amazing sightline across the park. Although there is a fair bit of elevation gain, this is a wonderful adventure that is well-suited to both casual and seasoned walkers.
Moderate
14.6 km
809 m
5-7h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Creag Bheag and Loch Gynack Circular Walk Route Guide

Walking the Creag Beagh and Loch Gynack Circular Trail is a great activity in Cairngorms National Park that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and a nearby loch. While out walking the trail you will pass through the village of Kingussie and make your way around Loch Gynack, before looping around the rugged slopes of Creag Bheag. This is a fantastic intermediate route that offers beautiful scenery and a nice challenge, without being too difficult.
Moderate
12.6 km
340 m
3-4.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Loch Muick and Broad Cairn Walk Route Guide

The Loch Muick and Broad Cairn Walk is a spectacular excursion in Cairngorms National Park that offers stunning views of a nearby lake and mountains. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill along the shores of Loch Muick and enjoy views overlooking Glas-allt-Shiel of Balmoral Estate, before heading even further uphill to the rugged summit of Broad Cairn. This lengthy out-and-back route is a great way to take in the beauty of the park.
Moderate
20.1 km
809 m
6-8h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Lochnagar and Loch Muick Circular Walk Route Guide

The Lochnagar and Loch Muick Circular Walk is a lengthy adventure through Cairngorms National Park that will take you across several rugged peaks for breathtaking views. While out walking the trail, you will climb up into the mountains to traverse the summits of Cac Carn Mor, Lochnagar, Carn a’ Coire Boidheach, Càrn an t’Sagairt Mòr, Cairn Bannoch, and Broad Carn, before walking along the shoreline of Loch Muick. Walkers should take note that this is a long and arduous journey, so exercise all precautions and come prepared with all of the necessary gear/supplies for such a trip.
Hard
29.1 km
1,289 m
8.5-12h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Rothiemurchus Forest Circular Walk Route Guide

The Rothiemurchus Forest Circular Walk is an easy-going excursion in Cairngorms National Park that features a wonderful woodland setting and a winding river. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the banks of Druie as you traverse the atmospheric forest, before looping around for a return through some open stretches of terrain. This is an excellent family-friendly adventure, just be sure to check for ticks after passing through the forest!
Moderate
7.4 km
143 m
1.5-2.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Carn Ban Mor Walk Route Guide

The Carn Ban Mor Walk is a fantastic walking adventure in Cairngorms National Park that features a variety of terrain and stunning views of the undulating landscape. While out walking the trail, you will pass through Glen Feshie along the banks of the River Feshie, before climbing uphill to reach the scenic summit of Carn Ban Mor. Walkers should definitely wear proper walking boots for this adventure, as the terrain here is rugged and can be covered in snow.
Hard
19.3 km
1,000 m
6-8.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Glen Clova, Mayar and Driesh Circular Walk Route Guide

Walking the Glen Clova, Mayar, and Driesh Circular is a wonderful, albeit challenging at times, adventure that will take you over several mountain peaks for views overlooking a valley. While out on the trail, you will cross over White Water and traverse the summits of Mayar and Driesh, where you will enjoy a spectacular sightline of Glen Clova. This is a great intermediate length route that offers a good variety of challenging terrain for those interested in a fun adventure.
Hard
14.5 km
838 m
5-7h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Glen Doll and Tolmount Circular Walk Route Guide

The Glen Doll and Tolmount Circular Walk is an amazing adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will take you into the mountains to bag two munros. While out walking the trail, you will pass through the woodlands of Glen Doll and meander alongside the banks of White Water, before reaching the top of Tolmount and Tom Buidhe for some spectacular views. Be sure to wear proper walking boots that are preferably waterproof, as much of the terrain along the route can be boggy.
Hard
20.4 km
866 m
6-8.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Glas Maol and Creag Leacach Walk Route Guide

The Glas Maol and Creag Leacach Walk is a challenging adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will take you across several rugged peaks for spectacular views of the park. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the floor of Glen Isla and enjoy views of the river, before climbing through the mountains across Glas Maol, Creag Leacach, and a number of other peaks. This is a rough and rugged journey that should only be undertaken by experienced walkers.
Hard
21.4 km
1,911 m
9-12.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Glentanar Estate Circular Walk Route Guide

The Glentanar Estate Circular Walk is a laidback excursion in Cairngorms National Park that will take you through the forested grounds of an estate once under control of the Marquis of Huntly. While out walking the trail, you will meander along densely wooded pathways and enjoy views of the nearby Water of Taner, as you loop around several hills for the return leg of the walk. Although it is an intermediate length adventure, this is still a great trail for families to explore.
Moderate
14.0 km
247 m
3-4.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Howff: The Hidden Bothy Walk Route Guide

The Howff: The Hidden Bothy Walk is a fun journey in Cairngorms National Park that will lead you through a glen to reach a secretive shelter built in 1952 by four climbers. While out on the trail, you will walk along the River Dee, before branching off through the mountains to find the bothy. Although this route will lead you in the general direction of the secret Howff, you will need to do your own searching to find its precise location!
Moderate
18.3 km
484 m
4.5-6.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Loch An Eilein and Loch Morlich Walk Route Guide

The Loch An Eilein and Loch Morlich Walk is a long, but fairly laidback adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will see you traverse a variety of terrain to visit two charming lochs. While out on the trail, you will skirt around the shores of Loch An Eilein, before passing through a vast stretch of woodland on the way to Loch Morlich. Although this trail is quite long and is often done as a multi-day trip, the terrain is easy enough to be conquered as a full-day walk.
Moderate
27.6 km
678 m
7-9.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Uath Lochans Circular Walk Route Guide

The Uath Lochans Circular Walk is a fantastic adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will see you explore a wonderfully atmospheric stretch of forest. While out walking the trail, you will meander along woodland pathways that circle around a series of small lakes, including the largest and most scenic of the bunch, Utah Lochan. This is a great walking route that the entire family can enjoy on the weekend.
Moderate
3.5 km
108 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Lochan Mor Walk Route Guide

The Lochan Mor Walk is a nice and easy adventure in Cairngorms National Park, Scotland that features a lovely forest and a small loch. While out walking the trail, you will utilize roads and footpaths to meander under the canopy of the forest, eventually arriving at the charming shores of Lochan Mor, which is an excellent place to rest by the water. This is a great walking route that can be enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
Easy
4.8 km
101 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Nethy Bridge and Loch Garten Circular Walk Route Guide

The Nethy Bridge and Loch Garten Circular Walk is a fantastic intermediate length route in Cairngorms NP for anyone that enjoys meandering through the forest. While out on the trail, you will stroll amongst the trees until you arrive at the shores of Loch Garten, where you will enjoy some nice views across the surface of the water. Walkers should take note that portions of this route do utilize roadways, so exercise caution if you are travelling with children or dogs.
Moderate
13.8 km
349 m
3.5-5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Nethy Bridge Circular Walk Route Guide

The Nethy Bridge Circular Walk is a nice family-friendly adventure in Cairngorms National Park that offers some pleasant views across the River Nethy. While out walking the trail, you will utilize roads and pathways on either side of the river, as you loop around the charming village and take in the surrounding scenery. This is a fun route that is perfectly suitable for walkers of all ages and skill levels.
Easy
3.2 km
69 m
1h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Broom Hill Circular Walk Route Guide

The Broom Hill Circular Walk is a fantastic route in Cairngorms National Park that features beautiful view sand a good variety of terrain. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the open countryside and pass through woodland terrain, before traversing the summit of Broom Hill and Pressendye for scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to bring bug repellent, as there can often be swarms of flies along the trail.
Moderate
14.8 km
581 m
4-6h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Parkin’s Moss Trail Route Guide

The Parkin’s Moss Trail is a fantastic family-family adventure in the eastern reaches of Cairngorms National Park that passes through a forest and offers views of a nearby loch. While out walking the trail, you will explore a beautiful stretch of woodland terrain and some boggy areas, before taking in the views of Loch Kinord. Although the route is short, be sure to bear proper walking boots!
Easy
3.2 km
63 m
0.5-1h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Glen Quoich Walk Route Guide

The Glen Quoich Walk is a laidback adventure in Cairngorms National Park that features a beautiful riverside setting, rushing falls, and sweeping views across the glen. While out walking the trail, you will follow along the banks of Quoich Water to view The Punch Bowl falls, before climbing uphill for some amazing views across the valley. While this is an intermediate length route, the terrain here is easy to navigate and traverse, making this a perfect route for beginner walkers.
Easy
12.6 km
303 m
3-4.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Ben Gulabin Walk Route Guide

The Ben Gulabin Walk is a challenging adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will take you on a fairly direct route up the mountain for views over the valley. While out walking the trail, you will climb up steep, rocky, and often eroded paths to reach the summit, where spectacular views of the surrounding landscape await. Walkers should take note that this route is only suitable for the summer months, as the peak is covered with snow and ice during the winter and requires experience using and ice axe and crampons.
Hard
6.8 km
507 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

The Wildcat Trail Route Guide

The Wildcat Trail is a fun family-friendly walking route in Cairngorms National Park that will lead you around the village of Newtonmore. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill to traverse the rugged hills to the north, before looping around the village along the winding banks of the River Spey. This is a fantastic activity to do if you are looking to take in the beauty of the highlands without much in the way of difficulty.
Easy
12.6 km
410 m
3.5-4.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Ballater and Old Railway East Walk Route Guide

The Ballater and Old Railway East Walk is a charming adventure in Cairngorms National Park that follows an old stretch of rail set alongside the River Dee. While out walking the trail, you will leave behind the village of Ballater and cross the countryside, passing by Tullich Chapel and The Souterrain. Walkers should take note that this is a one-way trail, meaning that you will need to either retrace your steps or take public transit for the return.
Easy
4.2 km
46 m
1h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Dun-da-Lamh Walk Route Guide

The Dun-da-Lamh Walk is a fantastic outdoor excursion in Cairngorms National Park that features scenic views from atop a peak that is also an historical site. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest to reach the summit of Dun-da-Lamh, which offers fantastic views overlooking the Spey Cam Reservoir and was once the site of a Pictish fort. While there is a fair amount of elevation gain on this moderate length trail, it is still suitable for casual adventurers.
Moderate
7.2 km
580 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Glas Tulaichean and Carn an Righ Walk Route Guide

The Glas Tulaichean and Carn an Righ Walk is a rugged adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will take you up two tall peaks for amazingly scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will follow along winding streams and enjoy lovely valley views, before the gruelling task of summiting both Glas Tulaichean and Carn an Righ. While the route may be tough, the breathtaking views that spread out as far as the eye can see are well worth the effort… as long as you catch them on a fair weather day.
Moderate
23.8 km
1,385 m
8-11.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Carn a’ Chlamain via Tilt Glen Walk Route Guide

Walking up Carn a’ Chlamain via Tilt Glen is a very long and challenging adventure in Cairngorms National Park that features rough terrain and scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will follow along the winding banks of the River Tilt, before making the steep push up to the summit. Walkers should take note that this is a very difficult route that should only be undertaken by those who have experience with long mountain walks.
Hard
29.3 km
1,457 m
9-13h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Carn na Caim and A’ Bhuidheanach Bheag Munro Walk Route Guide

The Carn na Caim and A’ Bhuiheanach Bheag Munro Walk is a rough and challenging adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will take you up to the top of two peaks with views of the surrounding terrain. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the boggy landscape of the moor to reach the summit of Carn na Caim, before heading south to the top of A’ Bhuiheanach Bheag Munro Walk. There is certainly a fair amount of rugged terrain along this route, so be sure to wear proper walking boots to safely traverse the trail.
Hard
19.5 km
1,041 m
6.5-9h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Lairig Ghru Walk Route Guide

The Lairig Ghru Walk is a long but laidback excursion in Cairngorms National Park that will expose you to the natural beauty of the forests within the region. While out walking the trail, you will make your way across a vast expanse of woodland landscape to reach the Rothiemurchus Lodge at the base of the mountains, before making the return along the banks of Druie. This is an excellent walking route if you enjoy exploring lush woodland landscapes.
Easy
15.9 km
500 m
4-6h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Creag Choinnich Walk Route Guide

The Creag Choinnich Walk is a great family-friendly walking route in Cairngorms National Park that will lead you to the summit of a forested hill for beautiful views. While out walking the trail, you wil;l climb up to the summit of Creag Choinnich for some beautiful views of the surrounding area, before looping around the hill to visit the 17th Century Braemar Castle. Although there is a bit of uphill walking, this is a fantastic route for the entire family to enjoy.
Moderate
5.8 km
313 m
2-2.5h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Craig Coillich Walk Route Guide

The Craig Coillich Walk is a short but steep walking route in Ballater that will take you uphill for some beautiful views of the surrounding Cairngorms NP terrain. While out walking the trail, you will cross over the River Dee and traverse the forested hillside to reach the summit of Craig Coillich, which offers wonderfully scenic views of Deeside. This is an exceptional adventure whether you are looking for a spot of exercise or simply to take in the scenery.
Moderate
4.0 km
239 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Cairngorms National Park

Ballater to Cambus o’May Circular Walk Route Guide

The Ballater to Cambus o’ May Circular Walk is a fantastic adventure in Cairngorms National Park that passes by several historical sites and returns through a beautiful riverside setting. While out walking the trail, you will follow along an old railway line that will take you past Tullich Chapel and the Souterrain, before looping around the Cambus o’ May Cheese Factory for a return along the River Dee. This is a great intermediate length trail for beginner and casual adventurers.
Moderate
12.7 km
241 m
3-4h

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