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    Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Hard
    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.
    7.5-10.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    29.3 km
    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.
    868 m
    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
    Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk

    The Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk is a full-day adventure from Glenmore covering 29.9 km and climbing an impressive 868 m to reach the summit of Creag Mhòr (1,047 m). The challenging route unfolds on good paths and invites you to experience a remote part of the Cairngorms, where you’ll find yourself entirely enveloped in the beauty and mystique of this marvellous land.

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    Route Description for Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk

    The Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk is a fabulous day out in the Cairngorms National Park for several reasons. Not only are you invited to test your endurance by reaching the summit of Creag Mhòr (1,047 m) but also to take in the beauty of Loch Avon and perhaps even brave a dip to cool off following the formidable summit climb. Good paths unfold for much of this route, although the going is rougher on Creag Mhòr, with some pathless stretches. Excellent views of the surrounding mammoth cairngorms await you on this walk, as well as an optional ascent of Creag Mhòr’s trademark granite tor.

    To begin the walk, set out along the track from the parking area near Glenmore and pass the barrier. As dense Scots Pine flank each side of the track, you’ll soon pass on the left of Lochan Uaine, with an optional jaunt down to its turquoise shores made possible by some steps.

    Continuing on the track, pass through the Ryvoan Pass and then take a right, following signs for Braemar at the fork. As the landscape opens before you, enjoy the breathtaking views of Abernethy Forest on your left as you head towards the River Nethy, crossing on a footbridge. Up ahead at another fork (where the constructed path ends), you’ll keep left.

    Creag Mhòr will soon be within your line of sight with Beinn a’Bhuird lording behind it. The path soon rises before a subsequent descent that leads you across Glasath in the below glen. After the burn crossing, press on for 300 m and then take the convenient path up the heath slopes found on your left and leading towards Creag Mhòr. Don’t be fooled by the rocky outcrop at 875 m, and instead continue up to the real summit made distinct by its granite armour. Once at the summit, opt to ascend the tor and soak up the views of the mighty Cairngorm giants that surround you.

    To descend from the summit, aim to the rocks right at the 875 m point and continue down this way to pick up the Lairig an Laoigh path. Heading southwards on this path, you’ll pass the shelter found at the Fords of Avon. From the shelter, depart the path and turn right onto a more rugged path that leads up gorgeous Glen Avon. Beware of boggy sections here and continue towards Loch Avon, one of the most remote lochs in all of Scotland. Walk the north side of the loch and take the higher branching path at the fork that climbs towards The Saddle across a slope. Take care as you make your way through the boulders and continue northbound down Strath Nethy.

    Enjoy the clear path down the glen and follow it to rejoin the path from the initial stage of the walk. Then, cross the footbridge once again and retrace your steps back to the parking area near Glenmore Lodge where the walk began.

    Getting to the Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk Trailhead

    To get to the Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk from Aviemore, take Craggan More Rd and Dalfaber Dr for 1.6 km to Grampian Rd/B9152. Then follow Grampian Rd/B9152 and B970 for 4.8 km. Continue on the minor road that leads to Glenmore Lodge and park by the end of the road to begin the walk.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Wild Camping

    • When to do

      Year-round access

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk Elevation Graph

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    Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk Reviews

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