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Cairn Gorm

1,245m Elevation
146m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Cairn Gorm via the Windy Ridge Path

This popular and straightforward route starts at the Coire Cas car park. Follow the Windy Ridge Path, a well-marked trail that ascends steadily to the Ptarmigan Restaurant. From there, a final push takes you to the summit of Cairn Gorm, offering panoramic views. Return the same way.

6 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Cairn Gorm and Coire an t-Sneachda Circular

A classic circular route starting at Coire Cas car park. Ascend via the Fiacaill a’ Choire Chais ridge to the summit of Cairn Gorm, then descend via Coire an t-Sneachda. This route combines dramatic scenery with a satisfying ridge walk.

9.5 km ~4 hours Challenging

Cairn Gorm from the Sugarbowl Car Park

Begin at the Sugarbowl car park and follow the path across the Allt Mor bridge towards the Chalamain Gap. Navigate through the boulder field before ascending to Cairn Gorm via the northern slopes. Descend via the Windy Ridge Path to Coire Cas.

11 km ~5 hours Challenging

Cairn Gorm and Ben Macdui Traverse

This demanding route links Cairn Gorm with Ben Macdui, the second-highest peak in the UK. Starting at Coire Cas car park, ascend Cairn Gorm, then traverse the plateau to Ben Macdui before returning via Coire an Lochain. A long but rewarding day out on the high Cairngorm plateau.

18 km ~8 hours Very Challenging

Cairn Gorm via Lairig Ghru Approach

Approach Cairn Gorm from the south, starting at the Linn of Dee. Follow the Lairig Ghru path and ascend Cairn Gorm via the northern slopes. This lesser-used route provides a remote and peaceful experience but requires excellent navigation skills.

25 km ~10 hours Extreme
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Munro Simm High Hills of Britain Submarilyn

Elevation

1,245m

4,084 ft

Prominence

146m

Coordinates

57.1167, -3.6445

NJ005040

OS Map

36

Explorer: OL57S 403S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn and a trig point, along with stunning panoramic views of the Cairngorms and beyond—it's like standing on top of the world (or at least, the best bit of it!).

Terrain & Geology

Rocky grassy with some scree in places

Cairn Gorm is primarily composed of granite, with its striking features shaped by glacial activity. The near-symmetrical dome is a highlight of the landscape, showcasing the stunning geological processes that have sculpted this region over millennia.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy sights of Ben Macdui, the second highest mountain in the UK, as well as the vastness of the surrounding glens and peaks.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Cairn Gorm translates to 'Blue Cairn', likely referencing the mountain's colour when seen from a distance.

Historical Significance

Cairn Gorm is steeped in local folklore and has been a popular destination for climbers and visitors since the Victorian era.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Coire Cas car park, located on the A95, provides a good starting point with ample parking facilities.

Public Transport

The nearest train station is Aviemore, which connects to various bus services heading towards the Cairngorms.

Nearby Facilities

The nearby town of Aviemore offers various facilities, including cafes, restaurants, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Changeable weather conditions can lead to reduced visibility; ensure you're prepared for sudden changes.
  • Loose stones and scree are present in certain areas, which may pose slipping hazards.

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 Cairn Gorm?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cairn Gorm through the maps

Are there other walkers around Cairn Gorm?

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 Cairn Gorm search or of course create your own walk for Cairn Gorm

Can I organise a walk to Cairn Gorm?

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 Cairn Gorm.

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 Cairn Gorm?

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 Cairn Gorm 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

Location

Cairn Gorm location map

Grid reference: NJ005040

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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