Geal Charn Far North Top
Good walks are even better shared.
NO0385 : Boggy col, Carn Liath
Richard Webb Photo source
Overview
Geal Charn Far North Top
Geal Charn Far North Top, standing majestically at 946 meters, is a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands. With its rugged terrain and stunning views, it draws hikers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Geology
The mountain is primarily composed of schist, a metamorphic rock known for its attractive foliation. The geology here contributes to the varying landscape, with rocky outcrops dotting the grassy slopes.
Access and Parking
To access Geal Charn, you'll want to park in the layby along the A86 near Balsporran Cottages. It’s a perfect place to leave your car, albeit make sure not to block the road! The nearest town is Newtonmore, where you can grab a bite and stock up on essentials.
Routes
The recommended route for most walkers is the North Route from the A86. Spanning about 6.5 kilometers, it takes around three hours to complete at a moderate pace. It is quite straightforward, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than your map skills!
Summit Features
Upon reaching the top, you'll be greeted by a delightful stone cairn. Don't forget to take a photo—the view is a hard one to beat!
Terrain
Expect a mix of grassy slopes and rocky patches. Keep an eye out for boggy spots that might try to sneak up on you!
Views
Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that reach the distant Cairngorms in the east. The landscape is especially stunning in spring and autumn, when the colours come alive.
Hazards
The weather can change faster than you can say 'Highland fling!' Be prepared, as it often takes an unpredictable turn. The terrain may also be slippery during wet conditions, so proceed with caution.
Nearby Summits
If you're up for more adventure, consider nearby summits like Geal Charn itself at 950 meters, and Carn na Caim, which towers at 1039 meters.
In summary, Geal Charn Far North Top is not just a mountain; it's an experience waiting to happen. Make sure to pack your sense of adventure, and perhaps a sandwich or two!
Explore routes near Geal Charn Far North Top
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Loch Muick full circuit from Spittal of Glen Muick
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Rothiemurchus: Beaver Trail and Lochan Mor
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Aviemore: Loch an Eilein and the Croft Track from Rothiemurchus
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Cairngorms night walk and stargazing (event meeting)
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
North Route from A86
A straightforward ascent starting from the A86, this route provides a direct approach to the summit with minimal navigation challenges.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NO0385 : Boggy col, Carn Liath
Richard Webb
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NO0385 : Cairn on 788m top
Rob Burke
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NO0385 : Heading south over the top of Point 788m
Karl and Ali
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
788m
2,585 ft
Prominence
21m
Coordinates
56.9512, -3.5881
NO035855
OS Map
43
Explorer: OL52N 387N
At the Summit
The summit features a small stone cairn, a testament to the many hikers who’ve enjoyed the view from here. The panoramic vistas are certainly worth the effort.
Terrain & Geology
Geal Charn is primarily composed of schist, which creates a rugged and interesting landscape. The schist is a metamorphic rock, formed under high pressure and temperature, which gives it a characteristic foliation and layered appearance.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, hikers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the distant contours of the Cairngorms to the east and the Monadhliath Hills to the south.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Geal Charn' translates from Gaelic as 'White Cairn', hinting at its distinctive appearance, especially under a blanket of snow.
Historical Significance
Geal Charn and its surrounding area were historically significant for hunting and as a part of local folklore, rich with stories of spirits and the supernatural.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Parking is available at a layby along the A86 near Balsporran Cottages, which can accommodate several cars.
Public Transport
There are limited bus services along the A86, so check the local timetables to plan your trip.
Nearby Facilities
The nearest facilities are in Newtonmore, where you can find cafes, shops, and public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Variable weather conditions can change rapidly, and the terrain may be slippery, especially in wet conditions. Beware of sudden drops and loose rocks.
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 Geal Charn Far North Top?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Geal Charn Far North Top through the maps
Are there other walkers around Geal Charn Far North Top?
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 Geal Charn Far North Top search or of course create your own walk for Geal Charn Far North Top
Can I organise a walk to Geal Charn Far North Top?
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 Geal Charn Far North Top.
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 Geal Charn Far North Top?
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 Geal Charn Far North Top 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
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NO035855
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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