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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
595 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.0 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Cairnwell Munros Walk

The Cairnwell Munros Walk
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Table of contents

The 8.1mi Cairnwell Munros Walk is a superb half-day adventure that starts at the Glenshee Ski Centre. The moderate elevation gain of just 1952ft makes this a great walk for those working towards higher summits. Those looking to add some Scottish Munros to their list will walk away with three more after tackling the summits of Càrn Aosda (3009ft), Càrn a'Ghèoid (3199ft) and The Cairnwell (3061ft).

Route Description for The Cairnwell Munros Walk

The Cairnwell Munros Walk is a great choice for those looking for straightforward hillwalking, some fantastic views and 3 more Scottish Munros to add to their belt. In normal conditions, the path, although indistinct at times, is easy to navigate. Some boggy sections along the way make proper footwear a good idea and it’s best to tackle this walk when conditions are favourable.

With the famous Cairnwell Pass well within your reach, you’ll set out from the Glenshee Ski Centre to begin the walk after parking by the cafe found off the main road’s west side. Aim for the main ski building as you leave the car park behind then turn left to join the track that rises steeply uphill.

You’ll soon reach the ridge that stretches west of Càrn Aosda and from here you’ll continue straight uphill towards the first summit. From 917 m, you’ll enjoy the beauty of your surroundings from this advantageous point, although the ski developments in the area do take away from this a bit.

Returning to the junction that meets the summit ridge, you’ll set out along this ridge following it to reach a bealach perched just above Loch Vrotachan. Drink in the views as you prepare for another climb. A second bealach is then reached, which you’ll cross, enjoying a few solitary lochans as you press on to the plateau of Càrn nan Sac. Once the summit of Càrn a'Ghèoidh is reached, you can congratulate yourself for reaching the highest of the 3 summits on this walk and enjoy the feeling of remoteness that abounds here.

Head back down to the bealach and continue on to your final summit, The Cairnwell. From here you’ll enjoy expansive, clear views down Glen Shee. From the summit of the Cairnwell, return down the ridge track to the bealach found below Carn Aosda. Follow the solid track which descends the corrie and leads back to the outward route. Continue back to the cafe parking lot where the walk began, and pat yourself on the back for tackling 3 Scottish Munros!

Getting to the The Cairnwell Munros Walk Trailhead

To get to the Cairnwell Munros Walk from nearby Glenshee, head southwest toward Old Military Rd/A93 and continue 0.2mi. Turn right onto Old Military Rd/A93 and drive 7.5mi to the Glenshee Ski Centre, where you’ll park to begin the walk.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-round access

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

The Cairnwell Munros Walk Elevation Graph

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