NO2773 : The featureless summit dome of Driesh (2)

Driesh

948m Elevation
137m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NO2773 : The featureless summit dome of Driesh (2)

Richard Webb Photo source

Explore routes near Driesh

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

Deeside Way

69.8 km 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.

Corrie Fee and Shank of Drumfollow Circuit

This classic route begins at the Glen Doll car park and ascends through the beautiful Corrie Fee Nature Reserve. The path climbs steeply via the Shank of Drumfollow to reach the summit of Driesh. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding Cairngorms and Glen Clova. The descent is made via the Kilbo Path, completing a scenic circuit.

10.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Kilbo Path Approach

This straightforward out-and-back route starts at the Glen Doll car park and follows the Kilbo Path, which is a well-trodden trail that ascends steadily through forestry and open terrain to the summit of Driesh. It is a relatively simple and direct route, suitable for less experienced walkers.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Driesh and Mayar Circular

This popular circular walk tackles both Driesh and its neighbouring Munro, Mayar. Starting from Glen Doll car park, it ascends via Corrie Fee to Mayar before continuing across a high plateau to Driesh. The descent is made via the Kilbo Path, making this a rewarding day out with two summits.

13 km ~5.5 hours Hard

Jock’s Road to Driesh

This less-travelled route uses part of the historic Jock's Road, starting from Glen Doll and passing through beautiful scenery in Glen Clova. The trail then joins the Kilbo Path for the final ascent to Driesh. This route is ideal for those looking for a quieter and more varied experience.

12 km ~5 hours Moderate

Dreish via White Water Circuit

This scenic route begins at the Glen Doll car park and follows the White Water Trail before branching off to ascend Driesh via the Kilbo Path. The route offers picturesque views of the river and surrounding glens, making it a perfect choice for walkers who enjoy riverside scenery combined with mountain terrain.

11 km ~4 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

948m

3,109 ft

Prominence

137m

Coordinates

56.8480, -3.1965

NO271735

OS Map

44

Explorer: OL53S 388S

At the Summit

The summit features a broken rocky outcrop, along with a small stone cairn and a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with boggy patches on lower sections.

Driesh is primarily composed of acidic schist and granite, formed during the Caledonian Orogeny. Its rugged outcrops provide a window into the geological history of the Scottish Highlands.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, walkers can view the vast expanse of the Cairngorms and neighbouring peaks, including the majestic Lochnagar and the rolling hills of Glen Clova.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Driesh' is thought to derive from Gaelic, possibly relating to the word for 'rugged' or 'wild', aptly reflecting its character.

Historical Significance

Driesh has long been an important feature in local folklore and a favourite among walkers, serving as a gateway to the enchanting landscapes of the Cairngorms.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Glen Shee Ski Centre has a car park with ample space. Arrive early during weekends and holidays to secure a spot, as it can get busy.

Public Transport

Buses run from Blairgowrie and Braemar to the ski centre, although services can be infrequent, so check local schedules.

Nearby Facilities

The Glen Shee Ski Centre offers a café for refreshments, and toilets are available nearby.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of sudden weather changes, especially in winter; paths can be steep and slippery when wet.

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 Driesh?

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

Are there other walkers around Driesh?

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 Driesh search or of course create your own walk for Driesh

Can I organise a walk to Driesh?

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 Driesh.

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 Driesh?

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 Driesh 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

Driesh location map

Grid reference: NO271735

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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