Carn an t-Sneachda

Carn an t-Sneachda

Carn an t-Sneachda Group Walks | Join a Walk

263m Elevation
33m Prominence
Scotland Country

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Classifications

200-299m Tump

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Elevation

263m

863 ft

Prominence

33m

Coordinates

57.6926, -4.7303

NH373702

OS Map

20

Explorer: 437S

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a substantial cairn, offering hikers a chance to stretch their legs (and perhaps take an obligatory selfie) whilst soaking in the stunning vistas.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with sections of grassy ground particularly as you ascend near the summit.

Carn an t-Sneachda is primarily composed of granite, a sturdy rock that has withstood the test of time and weather. The mountain is a prime example of the rugged geology typical of the Scottish Highlands, which showcases glacial features including cirques and arêtes.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, adventurers can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding Cairngorm mountain range, including peaks such as Ben Macdui and the expansive glacial valleys below.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Carn an t-Sneachda translates to 'Hill of the Snow', indicative of its snowy cap throughout winter and early spring.

Historical Significance

As one of the many Munros, it holds special significance for climbers and walkers looking to conquer Scotland's highest peaks.

Popular Routes

Coire Cas Circular Route

Moderate

This popular route begins at the Coire Cas car park, following the well-marked path toward the Northern Corries. Ascend via Fiacaill a' Choire Chais ridge, which provides excellent views of the Cairngorm Plateau. From the ridge, continue to the summit of Cairn Gorm before heading west to Carn an t-Sneachda. Descend through Coire an t-Sneachda to complete the loop.

9.5 km 4 hours

Fiacaill Ridge Approach

Challenging

A more adventurous route for experienced walkers. Starting at the Coire Cas car park, ascend via Fiacaill Ridge, which involves some scrambling. Once on the plateau, head south to the summit of Carn an t-Sneachda. Descend through Coire an t-Sneachda and follow the well-established path back to the starting point.

8 km 4.5 hours

Coire an t-Sneachda Ascent

Moderate

This direct route begins at the Coire Cas car park, taking the path into Coire an t-Sneachda. From the base of the coire, follow a steep path up to the plateau and onto the summit of Carn an t-Sneachda. Retrace your steps back through the coire for a straightforward out-and-back hike.

7.5 km 3 hours

Ben Macdui Traverse

Hard

This long and rewarding route starts at the Coire Cas car park. Ascend to the Cairngorm Plateau via Coire an t-Sneachda, then continue south to the summit of Ben Macdui. On the return journey, detour to Carn an t-Sneachda for stunning views before descending back to Coire Cas.

15 km 7 hours

Lairig Ghru Loop

Hard

This route starts at the Sugarbowl car park, following the path toward the Lairig Ghru. Ascend to the plateau via the Chalamain Gap, then head north to Carn an t-Sneachda. Descend through Coire an t-Sneachda and return to the car park via the Northern Corries path.

12 km 5.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Coire Cas Car Park (NH 9811 0669) - Well-marked and maintained, this car park is the primary starting point for many hikes in the area.

Public Transport

Buses operate from Aviemore to the Cairngorms, but services may be limited at certain times of the year, so check schedules in advance to avoid waiting around.

Nearby Facilities

Cafés, restaurants, and public toilets can be found in Aviemore, with the Coire Cas area also featuring a visitor centre.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of rapidly changing weather conditions, particularly during winter months. Visibility can drop suddenly, so it’s wise to carry proper navigation tools. Loose rocks on the ascent may also cause slips.

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

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Carn an t-Sneachda?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Carn an t-Sneachda through the maps

Are there other walkers around Carn an t-Sneachda?

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 an t-Sneachda search or of course create your own walk for Carn an t-Sneachda

Can I organise a walk to Carn an t-Sneachda?

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 an t-Sneachda.

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 an t-Sneachda?

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 an t-Sneachda 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