NO0991 : Bog pool on Creag Bhalg

Creag Bhalg

668m Elevation
160m Prominence
Scotland Country

Good walks are even better shared.

NO0991 : Bog pool on Creag Bhalg

Alan O'Dowd Photo source

Explore routes near Creag Bhalg

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.

The Glen Taitneach Route

A scenic ascent starting from Glen Taitneach, weaving through heather-clad hills and ascending steadily towards the summit.

12 km ~4.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm

Elevation

668m

2,192 ft

Prominence

160m

Coordinates

57.0033, -3.4969

NO091912

OS Map

43

Explorer: OL52N OL58S 387N 404S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn, a stone monument that offers a perfect spot for a celebratory sandwich after the climb.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky terrain and grassy slopes with some boggy patches—bring your best wellies just in case!

Creag Bhalg is primarily composed of granite and schist, providing a rugged appeal. The area showcases glacial features, including corries and tarns, remnants of the last Ice Age that carved the landscape into its current form.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, adventurers can feast their eyes on the stunning views of the Mounth plateau, Lochnagar, and the expansive Deeside.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Creag Bhalg' translates from Gaelic as 'Bald Rock'—aptly named, as its summit lacks the lush greenery found lower down.

Historical Significance

Creag Bhalg is cherished by local hikers both for its stunning vistas and as a part of the beautiful Scottish landscape, frequently featured in hiking literature.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking can be found at the Glen Taitneach car park, which offers enough space for around 5-6 vehicles. It’s a charming little spot, well-hidden off the main road.

Public Transport

Public transport options are limited; the closest bus service to reach nearby towns can be accessed from Aberdeen, followed by a taxi ride to the starting point.

Nearby Facilities

Facilities are quite limited on the mountain itself, but Aboyne has cafés and restrooms. Do pop in for a traditional scone if you have time!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of rapidly changing weather conditions in the Highlands. Additionally, there can be loose rocks, particularly on the more rocky sections of the path.

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 Creag Bhalg?

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

Are there other walkers around Creag Bhalg?

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 Creag Bhalg search or of course create your own walk for Creag Bhalg

Can I organise a walk to Creag Bhalg?

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 Creag Bhalg.

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 Creag Bhalg?

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 Creag Bhalg 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