Walks in Cairngorms National Park

The Beinn Udlamain Munro and Sgairneach Mhòr Walk is a rugged and exciting journey in Cairngorms National Park that will see you climb up into the mountains south of Dalwhinnie for stunning views. While out walking the trail, you will work your way uphill alongside Allt Coire Dhomhaine to reach the summits of Sgairneach Mhòr and Beinn Udlamain, where you will enjoy spectacular views of Loch Ericht. This walk is definitely a leg burner, so be sure to take your time, wear sturdy walking boots, and bring plenty of water.

The Glen Banvie Trail and Blair Castle Walk is a great adventure in Cairngorms National Park that takes in the grounds of an historic estate and its scenic surroundings. While out on the trail, you will skirt around the grounds of Blair Castle - the ancestral home of Clan Murray - before making your way through Glen Banvie to explore the hills and forests to the northwest. The mixture of historic sites, rugged terrain, and beautiful scenery makes this an exceptional walking route for a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts.

lthough you can join The Cateran Trail at any section, the 24.3 km stretch from Blairgowrie to Kirkmichael is often taken on as the initial stage. Waymarked paths and tracks make for a pleasant walk, setting out from nearby the Ericht and continuing through moorlands with some rough sections to reach Bridge of Cally. The trail continues up lovely Strathardle’s west side before coming to an end in the former civil parish of Kirkmichael, which today is an attractive little town!

Kirkmichael to Spittal of Glenshee is a brilliant stage of the 103.0 km long-distance Cateran Trail that spans the gorgeous Perthshire and Angus glens. This 13.0 km stage can be enjoyed as an independent walk or completed as the second stage of the full Cateran Trail. Walkers are invited into the landscape of the glen before tackling a lofty moorland pass. A final downhill stretch to the Spittal of Glenshee grants incredible mountain views--the perfect note to end the walk on.

The Cateran Trail: Spittal of Glenshee to Kirkton of Glenisla is a 23.5 km section of the 103.0 km long Cateran Trail. This section is one of the easiest in terms of walking and the pleasant trail unfolds mostly on tracks and paths through farmland and moorland. The lovely village of Kirkton of Glenisla is a delightful place to end the route, where a quaint church and graveyard, a small hotel, and several tiny cottages await.

The Cateran Trail: Kirkton of Glenisla to Alyth takes walkers along a gorgeous 17.0 km section of the 103.0 km long Cateran Trail. This stage features superb views from atop the moorland found just south of Kirkton of Glenisla and later through the rolling Alyth hills. The lovely town of Alyth is the perfect ending to an already scenic walk and is an excellent place to spend the night before continuing on to the next stage or to just grab a pint and dinner following the walk.

The 7.5 km Corrie Fee Walk explores one of Scotland’s National Nature Reserves and provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique plant life and wildlife found in this area. The walk unfolds on a good path that features a steady climb to the viewpoint over the bowl-shaped corrie. Although this walk isn’t particularly strenuous, due to some uphill stretches, it's likely best suited for adults and older children.

The 15.0 km Dalwhinnie to Culra Walk traverses a wild and remote landscape to enter the very heart of the Central Highlands. The purpose of this walk is generally to reach the start point of the Ben Alder and Beinn Bheòil Walk, which is only accessible by bike or on foot. If you’re interested in exploring a truly remote area of the Cairngorms National Park, however, this route can also be enjoyed on its own.

We can thank the power of ice and weather for shaping the Scottish Highland’s central mountain ranges. Experience the incredible craftsmanship of these two natural forces on the 17.0 km Ben Alder and Beinn Bheòil Walk. This challenging hillwalk invites you to explore the very heart of the Central Highlands, ascending two impressive summits and winning yourself unparalleled views over an incredibly remote area of the Cairngorms. The original green shelter (beloved by so many) Culra Bothy is now closed due to asbestos, so make sure to bring your tent along for this hike if you plan to stay overnight (you can find camping permit info under our Insider Tips below.)

The walk from Lary to Morven is a great adventure that will take you through the rugged terrain of Cairngorms National Park for some beautiful views across the moor. While out on the trail, you will meander along the base of Larry Hill and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains, as you traverse the rugged terrain of the moor on the way to the base of Morven. This route does not head up to the summit of Morven. If you would like to do so, you can chart a route up the hillside from the end of the trail and traverse the steep and rugged terrain, although this is only recommended for experienced walkers.

The Loch Brandy Trail is a fantastic walking route within the rugged expanse of Cairngorms National Park that will take you uphill to visit two elevated lakes and several others further downhill. While out on the trail, you will climb up the steep hillside to visit Loch Brandy before traversing Green Hill to reach Loch Wharral. A steep descent along Rough Craig will bring you to several smaller lakes on the way to the trailhead. If you enjoy sweeping scenic views, then this is a great trail to explore in Cairngorms.

The Loch Lee Glen Esk Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic route that will take you through a charming locale in Cairngorms National park for some truly beautiful views across the undulating landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make your way past the 16th Century Invermark Castle before passing by the calm waters of Loch Lee on the uphill climb to several cascading waterfalls. There is so much natural beauty and history on this route that it should definitely not be missed.

Walking the Ryvoan and Lochan Uaine Circuit is an easy going experience in Cairngorms National Park that will take you along the banks of Allt na Feithe Duibhe to reach the green, clear waters of An Lochan Uaine. While out on the trail, you will climb gently along the lower slopes of Meall a’ Bhuachaille before descending the opposite side on a slightly more challenging path to reach the scenic shores of the lake. The natural beauty of the area and relatively easy nature of the trail make this a perfect half-day walk that is suitable for most outdoor enthusiasts.

The Ballater Golf Course Walk is an easy going outdoor experience in Ballater that will allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of this small town set in Cairngorms National Park. While out on the trail, you will make your way towards the banks of the River Dee, following it to the south before skirting around the edge of a beautiful golf course. This walk is great for a quick weekend outing with the family, just be sure to keep an eye out for any stray golf balls that may come in your direction!

The Loch Kinord Pathway is a family-friendly walking route that can be found along the eastern edge of Cairngorms National Park and features a nice variety of terrain with scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will explore some tranquil stretches of woodland terrain and lovely meadows along the scenic shores of Loch Kinord in the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve. This is a quick adventure that can easily be done as a weekend afternoon excursion.

The Cateran Trail: Alyth to Blairgowrie comprises the 26.3 km final stage of the full 103.0 km Cateran Trail. The scenic route leads through the rolling hills found north of Alyth and continues through the peaceful countryside to the Bridge of Cally. Upon completing the route in Blairgowrie, there are several options for cozy accommodations and inviting places to grab a bite. If opting to enjoy this route as a stand-alone walk, a great option is to park in Alyth and return from Blairgowrie by public bus at the end of the walk or the reverse.

The 14.5 km Mayar and Driesh Walk unfolds near Folda, in Angus, Scotland and presents the perfect opportunity to check off two Scottish Munros in one go. The circular trail can typically be completed in under 5 hours, making for a superb half-day trip. The scenery during the ascent through Corrie Fee is noteworthy in addition to the spectacular views from atop Mayar and Driesh summits.

The Bynack More from Glenmore Walk is a challenging 22.5 km walk that is considerably straightforward despite its length. The trail features spectacular scenery, including picturesque Scots pine forest, the dazzling blue-green waters of Lochan Uaine, and some thrilling river crossings. This prominent Scottish Munro’s summit stands at 1,090 m high, making it a challenge well worth tackling.

Seven Bridges and Knock Castle Circular Walk is a relaxed 10.5 km route that will have you immersed in the beauty of the countryside that encases Ballater. Fresh country air, meandering rivers, and rolling hills make this walk a favourite of locals and visitors alike. Much of the walk unfolds on waymarked paths, small roads and tracks, resulting in easy navigation and a pleasant walking experience.

The 4.5 km Lower Glen Feshie and the Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail Walk in Kingussie, UK, takes you along on a magical journey through Scottish Culture as well as Lower Glen Shee. With stone and wood sculptures adorning much of the trail, this woodsy walk features the work of late artist Frank Bruce.