The Minigaig Pass - Kingussie to Blair Atholl
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 42 kms | 2 days | 1120 metres | Various Required |
Description
The Minigaig road which was built towards the end of the 16th century includes ancient drove roads and early trade routes which link Blair Atholl with Kingussie.
Start this walk by trekking out of the town of Kingussie and south east for just over a mile towards the ruins of Ruthven Barracks. Just before you reach the barracks leave the road to start walking over the shoulder of Beinn Bhuidhe towards Glen Tromie.
You should then follow the long private road up Glen Tromie which passes Bhran Cottage and also a new house which may not be marked on older maps. Follow the course of the Allt Bhran towards Coire Bhran. This is a good place to pitch tent for the night if you are planning on completing the route in two days.
In the morning find the old drove road which climbs diagonally across the flank of Leathad an Taobhain.
Now head down the south side of the Minigaig where the now obvious route to Glen Bruar should be visible. Follow the four wheel drive route down and past the Bruar shooting lodge which follows the river south. You should then cross over to climb the outskirts of Druim Dubh before descending to the Allt Sheicheachan bothy which has stood since 1881. This is a great place to shelter from the elements especially if attempting this route in winter.
From here you should find another four wheel drive path which you can follow all the way back to the finishing point in Blair Atholl where you can recover your car.
Access Info
The best way to walk the Minigaig is from north to south and with this in mind it's best to leave your car in Blair Atholl before getting the train north to Kingussie to start the route. First Scotrail timetable information can be found on their website.
Additional Info
This walk should only be attempted by dedicated walkers who have previous experience of navigating in remote parts of Scotland.
The surrounding lands are used broadly for deer stalking and although the walker has right of way on this route, check before setting out between August and October.
In the summer the walk is easier has distinct features of the old route, including culverts, walls and paving stones are clearly visible and help to guide you. This walk in winter however can be a completely different matter where tracks are covered by snow and you could find yourself route-finding most of the way.
The Minigaig is far more complex than other routes in the area such as the Lairg Ghru and Glen Tilt where you follow a natural channel through the mountains. This walk involves traversing a rolling landscape, where positive navigation features are hard to find. This is made even harder in harsh winter conditions and becomes a challenging two days or longer backpack.
If walking this route in two days in can be broken down to, Kingussie - Allt Coire Bhran the first day then Allt Coire Bhran - Blair Atholl the second day.
