Carn a' Chaochain

707m Elevation
270m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Explore routes near Carn a' Chaochain

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

4.6 km ~2h Hard

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Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath

8.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

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Banavie to Glen Loy Aqueduct: Neptune’s Staircase Canal Towpath

13.3 km ~4h Easy

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Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

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Route planning notes

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

Glen Feardar Route

A scenic approach via Glen Feardar provides a relatively gentle incline with stunning views.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm

Elevation

707m

2,318 ft

Prominence

270m

Coordinates

57.2168, -4.9243

NH235177

OS Map

34

Explorer: 415

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a substantial cairn, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with tufts of grass some sections may be boggy after rain.

The mountain primarily consists of granite, shaped by glacial activity, resulting in rugged and dramatic landscapes.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy views of the Cairngorms, with Ben Macdui and the faint outline of Braeriach in the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Carn a' Chaochain' translates from Gaelic as 'the cairn of the fawn'.

Historical Significance

This mountain has been a popular destination among hikers and climbers, contributing to the local culture of outdoor adventure.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking available at the end of the public road in Glen Feardar, approximately 3 km from the start of the hiking route.

Public Transport

Limited bus services to nearby villages; best accessed by car.

Nearby Facilities

Tomintoul offers some cafes, a shop, and basic amenities; however, facilities directly at the foot of the mountain are limited.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Weather conditions can change rapidly; always be prepared. Watch for loose rocks and boggy areas.

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 Carn a' Chaochain?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Carn a' Chaochain through the maps

Are there other walkers around Carn a' Chaochain?

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 Carn a' Chaochain search or of course create your own walk for Carn a' Chaochain

Can I organise a walk to Carn a' Chaochain?

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 Carn a' Chaochain.

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 Carn a' Chaochain?

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 Carn a' Chaochain 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NH235177

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Nearby Hills

Carn Eighe

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Mam Sodhail

1,179m

Sgurr a' Choire Ghlais

1,084m

Gleouraich

1,035m

Stob Choire Claurigh

1,177m
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