Little Cairngorm

Little Cairngorm

Little Cairngorm Group Walks | Join a Walk

1,040m Elevation
13m Prominence
Scotland Country

Join group walks, find walking companions and friends, or organise your own!

Classifications

Deleted Munro Top

Looking for walking companions?

Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Little Cairngorm together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.

Elevation

1,040m

3,413 ft

Prominence

13m

Coordinates

57.0558, -3.6170

NO020972

OS Map

36 43

Explorer: OL57S 403S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn offering a perfect photo opportunity, perhaps not quite the Instagram moment you were hoping for, but a good shot nonetheless!

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky and grassy sections interspersed with patches of heather; a loving reminder that nature's untidiness is always charming.

Primarily composed of granite, the Little Cairngorm displays classic Highland features with glacial morphology evident in its rugged terrain.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of the Cairngorms and the expansive Spey Valley.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cairngorm' derives from the Scots Gaelic 'An Càrn Gorm', translating to 'the blue hill', a clear nod to the preferred colour of this highland beauty.

Historical Significance

Little Cairngorm has been a beloved spot for hikers, often overshadowed by its taller siblings but cherished for its scenic offerings.

Popular Routes

Cairn Gorm Approach

Moderate

A relatively straightforward ascent from the Cairn Gorm car park, suitable for most walkers.

8 km 3.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Cairn Gorm Ski Centre car park, with ample space but can fill up quickly during peak times. It’s got the best views while you’re parked, too!

Public Transport

Regular buses operate from Aviemore to the Cairn Gorm Ski Centre, making it accessible for those who prefer not to go 'full hobbit' via the Shire.

Nearby Facilities

The Cairn Gorm Ski Centre features a café and toilets. It becomes your base camp before embarking on the little adventure!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Sudden weather changes, rocky terrain, and steep drops on some sections. Best to keep an eye on the sky—preferably for the weather, not the birds!

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

Find Walking Companions

Join friendly walkers exploring Little Cairngorm and surrounding area

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Little Cairngorm?

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

Are there other walkers around Little 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 Little Cairngorm search or of course create your own walk for Little Cairngorm

Can I organise a walk to Little 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 Little 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 Little 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 Little 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