Lochnagar

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
19 kms	06:00 (hrs:mins)	755 metres	Explorer 388: Lochnagar, Glen Muick & Glen Clova

Description

The route leads from the Visitor Centre at the Spittal of Glen Muick and follows a path with an easy gradient up to the col by Clais Rathadan, at the head of Glen Gelder. Just beyond Clais Rathadan take the path west leading to a moderate climb to the col below Meikle Pap.

Stop for a while here and dig the camera out of your rucksack for dramatic views of Lochnagar's 300 metre cliffs. Follow the path steeply ascending path along the corrie edge, picking your way through rocks and boulders heading towards the eastern summit plateau. The path eventually leads to Cac Carn Mor at 1150 metres.

The route then continues to the high point of the massif, the Munro of Cac Carn Beag, at 1155 metres.

To return, retrace your steps to Cac Carn Mor then follow the path on the south west side which eventually passes the summits of Cuidhe Crom and Little Pap and follows the Glas Allt stream, passing a spectacular waterfall before a steep descent to the glen floor. A level track, which circles Loch Muick (an excellent low level or wet weather alternative) then leads easily back to the car park at the Spittal of Glenmuick.

Access Info

Take the B976 from Ballater heading south for 1 kilometre. Then take the undesignated road down Glen Muick. Parking is only permitted at the Spittal of Glenmuick car park - charges apply (with the money going to access and path improvements).

The walk starts and finishes at the Spittal of Glenmuick car park.

Additional Info

Whilst this route presents no problems in clear weather with good conditions underfoot, be warned that snow cover abover 800m typically extends from mid-November through early May. The northern headwall of Lochnagar consists of 300m sheer cliffs.