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    Cairngorms National Park

    Walks in Cairngorms National Park

    Region in Scotland, United Kingdom

    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!

    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 Cairngorms National Park.

    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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    Best Hikes in Cairngorms National Park

    Showing 21 to 40 of 94
      Open details for Lochnagar and Loch Muick Circular Walk

      Lochnagar and Loch Muick Circular Walk

      Hard
      29.1 km
      1,289 m
      8.5-12h

      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.

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      Open details for Rothiemurchus Forest Circular Walk

      Rothiemurchus Forest Circular Walk

      Moderate
      7.4 km
      143 m
      1.5-2.5h

      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!

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      Open details for Carn Ban Mor Walk

      Carn Ban Mor Walk

      Hard
      19.3 km
      1,000 m
      6-8.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Glen Clova, Mayar and Driesh Circular Walk

      Glen Clova, Mayar and Driesh Circular Walk

      Hard
      14.5 km
      838 m
      5-7h

      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.

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      Open details for Glen Doll and Tolmount Circular Walk

      Glen Doll and Tolmount Circular Walk

      Hard
      20.4 km
      866 m
      6-8.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Glas Maol and Creag Leacach Walk

      Glas Maol and Creag Leacach Walk

      Hard
      21.4 km
      1,911 m
      9-12.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Boar of Badenoch, A’ Mharconaich, and Geal-Charn Walk

      Boar of Badenoch, A’ Mharconaich, and Geal-Charn Walk

      Moderate
      13.2 km
      891 m
      5-6.5h

      The Boar of Badenoch, A’ Mharconaich, and Geal-Charn Walk is a rough and rugged adventure in Cairngorms National Park that will take you into the mountains for views of the surrounding area. While out walking this trail, you will traverse the boggy and rugged terrain of its three namesake peaks, where you will have a commanding view overlooking Loch Ericht and nearby mountains. While sections of this route can be a bit poorly marked, it is still a fantastic adventure worth undertaking.

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      Open details for Glentanar Estate Circular Walk

      Glentanar Estate Circular Walk

      Moderate
      14.0 km
      247 m
      3-4.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Howff: The Hidden Bothy Walk

      Howff: The Hidden Bothy Walk

      Moderate
      18.3 km
      484 m
      4.5-6.5h

      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!

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      Open details for Loch An Eilein and Loch Morlich Walk

      Loch An Eilein and Loch Morlich Walk

      Moderate
      27.6 km
      678 m
      7-9.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Uath Lochans Circular Walk

      Uath Lochans Circular Walk

      Moderate
      3.5 km
      108 m
      1-1.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Lochan Mor Walk

      Lochan Mor Walk

      Easy
      4.8 km
      101 m
      1-1.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Nethy Bridge and Loch Garten Circular Walk

      Nethy Bridge and Loch Garten Circular Walk

      Moderate
      13.8 km
      349 m
      3.5-5h

      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.

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      Open details for Nethy Bridge Circular Walk

      Nethy Bridge Circular Walk

      Easy
      3.2 km
      69 m
      1h

      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.

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      Open details for Broom Hill Circular Walk

      Broom Hill Circular Walk

      Moderate
      14.8 km
      581 m
      4-6h

      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.

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      Open details for Parkin’s Moss Trail

      Parkin’s Moss Trail

      Easy
      3.2 km
      63 m
      0.5-1h

      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!

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      Open details for Craigendarroch Summit Trail

      Craigendarroch Summit Trail

      Moderate
      2.3 km
      145 m
      1h

      The Craigendarroch Summit Trail is a quick and fairly easy adventure in Cairngorms National PArk that will take you up a small hill for beautifully scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will loop around the forested slopes of Craigendarroch to reach its summit, where you will enjoy amazing views of Deeside. Although this route may be short, be sure to wear proper footwear.

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      Open details for Glen Quoich Walk

      Glen Quoich Walk

      Easy
      12.6 km
      303 m
      3-4.5h

      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.

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      Open details for Badenoch Way Trail

      Badenoch Way Trail

      Moderate
      5.0 km
      165 m
      1.5-2h

      The Badenoch Way Trail is an exceptional walking route in Cairngorms National Park that will take you through a lovely stretch of woodland terrain with rocky crags and charming lochs. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest along the Badenoch Way, before visiting the lookout at Farleitter Crag and descending along Uath Lochan. Be sure to exercise caution along the cliffs at Farleitter Crag, as there are some steep drop offs that could prove dangerous.

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      Open details for Morven Walk

      Morven Walk

      Hard
      21.4 km
      851 m
      6-8.5h

      The Morven Walk is a rugged adventure in Cairngorms National Park, Scotland that features a variety of terrain and wonderfully scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will leave Ballater behind and pass through a stretch of forest, before traversing a vast stretch of moor on the way to the summit of Morven. Proper walking boots, ideally waterproof ones, are recommended, as the boggy landscape of the moor can be quite a challenge to traverse with soggy feet.

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