Walks 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!
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!
Find more walking regions
- Lake District Walks
- Peak District Walks
- South Downs Walks
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Walks
- Chiltern Hills Walks
- Snowdonia Walks
Or use this link to find all walking regions in the UK.
Best Hikes in Cairngorms National Park
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.
User Ratings
Mealna Letter and Loch Beanie Circular Walk
The Mealna Letter and Loch Beanie Circular Walk is an enjoyable 14.0 km route that invites you to reach the summit of Mealna Letter and navigate the lovely shoreline of sparkling Loch Beanie. The final stretch of the 4-5 hour walk follows the Cateran Trail with brilliant views up Glen Shee. Just an hour’s drive North from Dundee, this half-day walk is the perfect escape from the city. Waterproof footwear is a must for this route, as several sections are known to be boggy.
User Ratings
White Mounth Munros Walk
Just shy of 30.0 km long, the White Mounth Munros Walk isn’t for the faint of heart. This extensive 29.0 km hillwalk invites you to tackle the summit of 5 Scottish Munros, including Lochnagar (1,155 m), Carn a' Choire Bhoidheach (1,110 m), Carn an t-Sagairt Mor (1,047 m), Cairn Bannoch(1,012 m), and finally Broad Cairn (998 m). And with a maximum ascent of 1,228 m, you’ll no doubt have the opportunity to take in some of the most phenomenal views in the Cairngorms National Park. While the 9 to 11 hour walk can certainly be completed in one go, many choose to Wild Camp for a night or two along the route, breaking the lengthy voyage into shorter sections.
User Ratings
Glas Maol Munros Circular Walk
The 19.5 km Glas Maol Munros Circular Walk is a thrilling adventure across a hilly plateau in the Cairngorms. With little descent between summits, this walk presents the perfect opportunity to conquer 4 Scottish Munros in under 8 hours. This full-day adventure is bound to get the adrenaline pumping with the added bonus of incredible panoramas from the summits. On this walk, you’ll climb Càrn an Tuirc (1,019 m), Cairn of Claise (1,064 m), Glas Maol (1,068 m), and Creag Leacach (987 m).
User Ratings
Cairn Toul Walk
Walk 35.8 km over 2 days from Cairn Toul to Braeriach on the magnificent Cairn Toul Walk. Experience an incredibly remote part of Scotland’s expansive Cairngorms and revel in the views afforded by a total ascent of 1,820 m. The option to complete the route in a single day may appeal to extremely experienced hillwalkers, however, we recommend enjoying some wild camping along the way and enjoying this route over two remarkable days.
User Ratings
Loch Garten and Garten Woods Circular Walk
The short but ever so sweet loch Garten and Garten Woods Circular Walk covers just over 8.0 km of scenic, waymarked trails. The family-friendly walk invites you to explore charming woodlands, rich in Scots Pine and brimming with wildlife. The route also features the peaceful quiet shores of Loch Mallachie and further on Loch Garten. Minimum elevation and the ability to complete the walk in around 2 hours makes this the perfect jaunt into nature, enjoyable for the whole family.
User Ratings
Geal Chàrn Walk
The Geal Chàrn Walk is a 11.3 km out-and-back hillwalk that invites undertakers to reach the summit of Geal Chàrn (926 m) with a 732 m climb. Setting out first through the peak’s eastern corrie, this walk presents the opportunity to ascend one of the Monadhliath Munros while exploring an extraordinarily remote area of Scotland.
User Ratings
Beinn a’Chaorainn and Beinn Bhreac Walk
The Beinn a'Chaorainn and Beinn Bhreac Walk is an extensive hillwalk that requires endurance and a keen sense of adventure. The 29.0 km trail is a full-day voyage, featuring stunning views and formidable climbs. While some complete the trail in one-go, wild camping is an option for those looking to spread it out over two days.
User Ratings
Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava
The 13.4 km Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava walk is the perfect introduction to one of Scotland’s Great Trails -- the 38.0 km Dava Way. The first stage unfolds on a good, even path as it leads you through the wide-open countryside that paves the way from Grantown on Spey to Dava, unfolding mostly alongside a historic railway line. With very few ups and downs and covering a relatively short distance, this walk is great for all skill levels and can either be done independently or in conjunction with stage two and stage three.
User Ratings
Dava Way: Dava to Dunphail
The Dava Way: Dava to Dunphail is the second of three stages that comprise the full Dava Way. This 10.5 km section leads through expansive moorland before passing the Divie Viaduct and takes in incredibly remote areas with very little signs of life. You’ll walk alongside an old railway line for much of the route while enjoying pleasant easy walking on flat paths and tracks.
User Ratings
Dava Way: Dunphail to Forres
The Dava Way: Dunphail to Forres is a joyful 14.2 km through a scenic landscape made up of woods and expansive pastures. As the final section of the 38.0 km full Dava Way, this walk follows in the footsteps of the previous two sections, following an old railway line through peaceful and remote areas. Views from an extensive embankment along the route are spectacular and the walk wraps up in the attractive town of Forres, where you’ll have no trouble finding a refreshing pint and a bite to eat after finishing up.
User Ratings
Cambus o’ May Pinewood Trail
The Cambus o’ May Pinewood Trail makes for a brilliant couple of hours in nature and is suitable for families or those just looking for a pleasant stroll. The circular walk unfolds on good forest tracks and paths and the trail is waymarked, making for easy navigation.
User Ratings
Meall a’ Bhuachaille Circular Walk
The Meall a' Bhuachaille Circular Walk is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the Cairngorms National Park in just a few hours. The circular walk, which covers just over 8.0 km, features incredible views from the summit of Meall a' Bhuachaille and excellent accessibility, making it a great choice for families with older children who are ready to take on a summit, or those looking to tackle a Corbett in a relatively short amount of time. The ancient forest that clads much of the initial trail makes this the perfect escape into the wilderness.
User Ratings
The Cairnwell Munros Walk
The 13.0 km Cairnwell Munros Walk is a superb half-day adventure that starts at the Glenshee Ski Centre. The moderate elevation gain of just 595 m 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 (917 m), Càrn a'Ghèoid (975 m) and The Cairnwell (933 m).