Beinn Mheadhoin
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Beinn Mheadhoin: The Middle Hill of Adventure
Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, Beinn Mheadhoin stands proudly at 1158 meters as a Munro, welcoming hikers with its breathtaking scenery and diverse terrain.
Geology
Beinn Mheadhoin's granite composition contributes to its resilience against the elements and offers a striking contrast against the surrounding verdant hills. Geological formations in the area reveal fascinating insights into the region's glacial past, with erratic boulders dotted around like nature's very own treasure trail.
Access
Parking
Begin your adventure at the Cairn Gorm Mountain Resort, where parking is plentiful but remember to secure your spot early on busy days.
Public Transport
If you’re without wheels, worry not! Buses frequently ply the route to Aviemore, with connectors leading to Cairn Gorm.
Nearby Town
The charming village of Aviemore serves as your base, ripe with facilities, eateries, and places to rest your weary legs after a day’s hiking.
Routes
The Mason's Track is the most frequented route, winding up from Loch Avon and offering an exhilarating ascent interspaced with stunning views. At 12.5 km, it’s a moderate trek best tackled in five energetic hours.
Terrain & Hazards
Expect varied terrain; rocky scrambles require careful footwork, while soft grassy slopes allow for a brief respite (and maybe some swaying along to an imaginary bagpipe tune). Stay alert for the ever-changing Scottish weather—adaptability is key! Remember, each step in a bog might feel like a sneak peek at the local wildlife’s favourite hangout.
Summit Features
Crowning Beinn Mheadhoin, the stone cairn at the summit serves as a triumphant marker for your achievements—perfect for a celebratory selfie!
Views
Once you catch your breath, take a moment to enjoy the stunning panoramas. The Cairngorms, Loch Avon, and dramatic peaks like Ben Macdui stretch endlessly before you, a testament to these ancient lands' grandeur. Late spring through early autumn offers prime conditions to soak in the beauty, so make sure you plan accordingly.
Facilities
The Cairn Gorm Mountain Resort provides cafes, where you can grab a quick bite or a warm drink after your adventure, while Aviemore boasts an array of dining spots and shops to cater to all needs.
History
The name Beinn Mheadhoin reflects its central location amongst neighboring hills—a fitting moniker for a peak that draws adventurers from near and far. Its cultural significance is woven through the hearts of those who have tread its paths, each generation adding to its legacy of exploration.
In summary, Beinn Mheadhoin isn’t just a hill; it’s a journey of discovery, connection to nature, and a hearty embrace of the great outdoors. No wonder hikers find themselves enchanted and eager for a return visit!
Explore routes near Beinn Mheadhoin
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail
View route
Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair
View route
Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath
View route
Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Mason's Track
A popular route starting from the picturesque Loch Avon, following the Mason's Track up to the summit of Beinn Mheadhoin.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
664m
2,179 ft
Prominence
217m
Coordinates
57.4866, -4.9064
NH258477
OS Map
25
Explorer: 430
At the Summit
The summit is adorned with a prominent stone cairn, providing an excellent photo opportunity and a great place to catch your breath (and possibly a puffing sound if you overindulged in the black pudding).
Terrain & Geology
Beinn Mheadhoin is primarily composed of granite, which gives it a rugged and sturdy appearance. The surrounding area features interesting geological formations, including glacial valleys and erratics, remnants of the last Ice Age.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Cairngorms, including the iconic Loch Avon, the steep cliffs of the Angel's Peak, and far-reaching landscapes of the Highlands.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name Beinn Mheadhoin translates to 'the middle hill' in Scots Gaelic, suggestive of its central position amongst surrounding peaks.
Historical Significance
Beinn Mheadhoin is renowned for its hiking trails and is a popular destination for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking the thrill of the Highlands.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is ample parking at the Cairn Gorm Mountain Resort where you can leave your car securely, but be wary it can fill up quickly on weekends.
Public Transport
Bus services operate to Aviemore from major cities, with local connections to the Cairngorm area. Check the local transport schedules for the latest details.
Nearby Facilities
Cafés and public toilets are available at the Cairn Gorm Mountain Resort, and Aviemore offers a range of shops, restaurants, and accommodations for those looking to extend their stay.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Steep descents on certain routes, potential for sudden weather changes, particularly in winter months. Care should be taken during wet conditions due to slippery rocks and bogs.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Beinn Mheadhoin?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Beinn Mheadhoin through the maps
Are there other walkers around Beinn Mheadhoin?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Beinn Mheadhoin search or of course create your own walk for Beinn Mheadhoin
Can I organise a walk to Beinn Mheadhoin?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Beinn Mheadhoin.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Beinn Mheadhoin?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Beinn Mheadhoin here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NH258477
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
No comments yet. Be the first.