NO0197 : Derry Cairngorm

Derry Cairngorm

1,156m Elevation
142m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NO0197 : Derry Cairngorm

Richard Webb Photo source

Explore routes near Derry Cairngorm

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.

Derry Lodge Route

Starting from Derry Lodge, this popular route takes you through stunning landscapes with beautiful views.

16.5 km ~5.5 hours Moderate

Green Hill Route

A less trodden path that offers solitude and a chance to see local wildlife, beginning from the Glen Derry path.

14 km ~4.5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Munro Simm High Hills of Britain Submarilyn

Elevation

1,156m

3,792 ft

Prominence

142m

Coordinates

57.0628, -3.6220

NO017980

OS Map

36 43

Explorer: OL57S 403S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn, ideal for a celebratory photograph, to prove to your mates that you did, in fact, reach the top!

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some sections of boggy ground

Derry Cairngorm is primarily composed of granite, resulting from the cooling and solidification of magma beneath the Earth's surface. This igneous rock gives the mountain its rugged terrain and striking appearance, while the surrounding area features glacial deposits and lush vegetation.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Lairig Ghru, Ben Macdui, and even the Cairn Toul, creating a natural amphitheater of magnificent Scottish wilderness.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Derry' is believed to derive from the Gaelic word 'Doire,' meaning 'oak grove.' The 'Cairngorm' is derived from 'Carn Gorm,' which means 'blue hill.'

Historical Significance

Derry Cairngorm is a favoured peak among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, not just for its challenge but also for its role in Scottish mountaineering history.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Derry Lodge Parking Area - This car park offers ample space and is well-maintained, enabling you to start your adventure with a full belly and happy heart.

Public Transport

Available bus services to Braemar and later to Derry Lodge, though service can be infrequent. It's advisable to check local schedules ahead of time.

Nearby Facilities

There are limited facilities at Braemar, including cafes, shops, and public toilets. Be sure to stock up on snacks before heading up the hill, as summits offer no vending machines!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Always be wary of sudden weather changes; Scottish mountains can be as moody as your auntie after her tea runs out. Ensure that you have appropriate gear and a map.

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 Derry Cairngorm?

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

Are there other walkers around Derry Cairngorm?

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 Derry Cairngorm search or of course create your own walk for Derry Cairngorm

Can I organise a walk to Derry Cairngorm?

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 Derry Cairngorm.

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 Derry Cairngorm?

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 Derry Cairngorm 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: NO017980

View on OpenStreetMap

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Nearby Hills

Beinn Mheadhoin

1,183m

 Ben Macdui [Beinn Macduibh]

Ben Macdui [Beinn Macduibh]

1,309m

 Cairn Gorm

Cairn Gorm

1,245m

Bynack More

1,090m

 Cairn Toul

Cairn Toul

1,291m
See 5 more nearby hills