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Cairn Toul

1,291m Elevation
166m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Rothiemurchus: Beaver Trail and Lochan Mor

6.1 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Aviemore: Loch an Eilein and the Croft Track from Rothiemurchus

11.3 km ~3h 30m Moderate

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Loch Kinord: Muir of Dinnet Woodland Circuit

6.4 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Craigellachie to Aberlour: Speyside Railway Path Return

7.7 km ~2h 15m Easy

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Route planning notes

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

Cairn Toul via Corrour Bothy

This classic route starts from the Linn of Dee car park. Hike through Glen Lui and into Glen Dee to reach Corrour Bothy. From there, ascend steeply up the western slopes of Cairn Toul. This route offers stunning views of the Lairig Ghru and neighbouring peaks.

30 km ~10 hours Challenging

Cairn Toul and Braeriach Traverse

A popular high-level traverse starting at the Sugar Bowl car park near the Cairngorm Ski Centre. Cross the Chalamain Gap to reach the Lairig Ghru, then ascend Braeriach. Follow the ridge to Cairn Toul via Sgor an Lochain Uaine before descending to the Lairig Ghru and returning to the start.

35 km ~12 hours Very Challenging

Cairn Toul from the Devil’s Point

Begin at the Linn of Dee car park and head through Glen Lui and Glen Dee to Corrour Bothy. Ascend the Devil’s Point first, then continue along the ridge to Cairn Toul. Descend along the same route. This itinerary allows you to bag multiple Munros in one outing.

32 km ~11 hours Challenging

Cairn Toul via Glen Feshie

Starting from Achlean in Glen Feshie, follow the glen northward before ascending to the plateau. Traverse the Moine Mhor to reach the summit of Cairn Toul. This is a remote and less-trodden route, requiring excellent navigation skills.

40 km ~13 hours Very Challenging

Cairn Toul Circular via Lairig Ghru

A full circular route starting at Linn of Dee. Head into Glen Dee via Glen Lui, ascend Cairn Toul via the western corries, and return through the Lairig Ghru. This demanding circuit showcases the best of the Cairngorms.

38 km ~12 hours Very Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,291m

4,236 ft

Prominence

166m

Coordinates

57.0544, -3.7108

NN963972

OS Map

36 43

Explorer: OL57S 403S

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a prominent cairn, providing an ideal photo opportunity against a backdrop of breathtaking views.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and boggy in places with some steep sections requiring careful navigation.

Cairn Toul is primarily composed of granite, characteristic of the Cairngorms, with some interesting geological formations that showcase the effects of glaciation in the region.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you'll be able to see the sweeping valleys of the Cairngorms, as well as peaks like Braeriach and Ben Macdui.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cairn Toul' is derived from the Gaelic 'Càrn Tula', meaning 'the mound of the valley'.

Historical Significance

Cairn Toul is part of the Monadhliath mountains and has a rich history of both indigenous culture and mountaineering.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking available at the Coylumbridge car park, which is approximately 10 km from the trailhead.

Public Transport

Frequent bus services run from Aviemore to the Cairngorms area. Check local timetables for current routes.

Nearby Facilities

Aviemore offers several cafes, shops, and toilet facilities. The Cairngorms National Park Authority Visitor Centre is also nearby.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Variable weather conditions can change rapidly; ensure to check forecasts and be prepared for all eventualities.
  • Loose rocks and steep drops on the ascent may pose challenges in places.

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 Toul?

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

Are there other walkers around Cairn Toul?

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

Can I organise a walk to Cairn Toul?

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 Toul.

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 Toul?

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 Toul 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 Toul location map

Grid reference: NN963972

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Nearby Hills

Braeriach

1,296m

 Ben Macdui [Beinn Macduibh]

Ben Macdui [Beinn Macduibh]

1,309m

 Cairn Gorm

Cairn Gorm

1,245m

Sgor Gaoith

1,116m

Beinn Mheadhoin

1,183m
See 5 more nearby hills