NN9099 : Sgòr Gaoith

Sgor Gaoith

1,116m Elevation
243m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN9099 : Sgòr Gaoith

Richard Webb Photo source

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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.

Standard Route via Glen Feshie

This is the most popular route to ascend Sgor Gaoith, starting from the Glen Feshie car park. The route follows a clear path through woodland, emerging onto open moorland with stunning views of the Cairngorms. From there, a steady climb leads to the summit, offering breathtaking views over Loch Einich and the surrounding mountains.

14 km ~5 hours Moderate

Approach via Loch Einich

This route starts from the Whitewell car park near Rothiemurchus and follows the track to Loch Einich. From the loch, a steep ascent leads up to the ridge and on to Sgor Gaoith. This route is longer but offers a scenic journey through the Rothiemurchus Forest and alongside Loch Einich.

24 km ~8 hours Hard

Circuit of Sgor Gaoith and Sgoran Dubh Mor

A rewarding circular route that takes in both Sgor Gaoith and its neighbouring Munro top, Sgoran Dubh Mor. Starting from Glen Feshie, the route climbs to Sgor Gaoith before continuing along the ridge to Sgoran Dubh Mor and descending via the eastern slopes back to the starting point.

16 km ~6 hours Moderate

Ascent from Achlean

This route begins at the Achlean car park in Glen Feshie and follows a well-trodden path through the forest before climbing onto the open hillside. The ascent offers excellent views of the surrounding glens and peaks, culminating in the summit of Sgor Gaoith with its dramatic cliffs above Loch Einich.

13 km ~5 hours Moderate

Winter Traverse via Monadh Mor

A challenging winter route starting from Glen Feshie, taking in Monadh Mor before continuing to Sgor Gaoith. This route is best suited for experienced winter walkers and requires full winter equipment. It offers a remote and exhilarating adventure with spectacular views over the Cairngorm Plateau.

20 km ~9 hours Very Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,116m

3,661 ft

Prominence

243m

Coordinates

57.0686, -3.8109

NN903989

OS Map

36 43

Explorer: OL57S 403S

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a large cairn and a trig point, perfect for a photo op and to mark your achievement.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with sections of heather that seem to have a mind of their own.

Sgor Gaoith is primarily composed of granite and offers a striking example of mountain erosion, with its rugged features shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age.

Views & Scenery

On clear days, you can see the vast expanse of the Cairngorms, including the stunning Loch Einich and Loch Morlich.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Sgor Gaoith' translates to 'peak of the wind' in Gaelic, a fitting title considering the often bracing gusts encountered at the summit.

Historical Significance

Sgor Gaoith holds cultural significance for local communities and is a celebrated hiking destination for both locals and tourists.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Glen Feshie car park, accessible from the A9 at Kincraig. Offers ample space but can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Public Transport

The nearest train station is in Kingussie, from where you can catch a local bus to Kincraig.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities at the mountain itself but nearby Aviemore offers a variety of cafes, shops, and toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep drops near the summit, changeable weather conditions, and potential for boggy ground lower down.

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 Sgor Gaoith?

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

Are there other walkers around Sgor Gaoith?

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 Sgor Gaoith search or of course create your own walk for Sgor Gaoith

Can I organise a walk to Sgor Gaoith?

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 Sgor Gaoith.

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 Sgor Gaoith?

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 Sgor Gaoith 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: NN903989

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