Cairngorms National Park | (Official GANP Page)

About

Cairngorms National Park is located in the northeast region of Scotland, United Kingdom. The park covers an area of 1,748 square miles (4,528 sq km) creating the largest national park amongst the United Kingdom.

The park encompasses the Cairngorms mountain range and the neighboring foothills. There are almost 20,000 residents living within the park’s boundaries. The Cairngorms mountains are the pinnacle attraction of the park which draws visitors from across the UK as well as travelers from around the world who want to hike and explore the splendid range of mountains and forested rolling hills.

There are three significant rivers that meander amongst the mountains and foothills. The three rivers include the Dee River, the Don River, and the Spey River which is the second-longest river in Scotland.

The mountains resemble those found in Hardangervidda National Park in Norway. The key feature is a massive upland plateau with surrounding mountain landscapes that feature kopje, free-standing rock outcrops, and steep cliffs. The park is also highly attractive to rock climbers as well as ice climbers who want to take advantage of these diverse climbing opportunities.

The riverine vegetation, upland plateaus and grasslands, and the forested mountains create a tremendous ecosystem that supports the wildlife of the area. Some of the most popular sightings include the red deer and the reindeer. Bird lovers are attracted to the array of bird species found in the park which are highlighted by the golden eagle, ptarmigan, and snow bunting.

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Things to See

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The number of hiking opportunities spread across the various mountains is a highlight for most who look to the Cairngorms as a way to get out in nature and explore the wonderful wilderness. There are a variety of rare wildlife and vegetation species that also serve as highlights such as the reindeer.

Reindeer

The Cairngorms is home to the only population of reindeer in all of the United Kingdom. The species is more commonly experienced in Russia, Canada, and northern Europe. The reindeer is of course one of the pinnacle representations of Santa Claus and Christmas.

Both the male and female reindeer grow antlers, losing them, and growing new ones each year. The antlers are second only to the moose in their length. The males are typically 71 to 84 inches (180-214 cm) in length and weighing as much as 400 pounds (182 kg). The females are usually a little shorter in length and weighing less coming in as much as 260 pounds (120 kg).

Cairngorms National Park Trails

Hiking amongst the mountains and hills of Cairngorms National Park is one of the leading activities associated with the protected area. There are numerous trails that meander through and up into the mountains. Two of Scotland’s Great Trails also meander through the park.

There are 55 different mountains reaching heights of 3,000 feet (910 m) that are locally known as Munros. Each of them offers a chance for hikers and trekkers to ascend to the top to take in the views around the area. The trails range from easy to difficult and short to multi-day.

Loch Muick Trail

This is a loop trail covering a distance of 7.9 miles (12.71 km) while traveling around the lake. There is an elevation change of 800 feet (243.8 m), but the trail is rated easy. There are views of the lake and surrounding mountain landscape as well as chances to see wildlife.

Lochnagar Munro Trail

This loop trail is rated difficult while traveling 18.1 miles (29.13 km) and ascending up 4,220 feet (1,286.3 m). The panoramic views are astounding with chances to see wildflowers, wildlife, wilderness, and a waterfall along the way. Parts of the trail are quite rocky.

Cairnwell Trail

This is a 6.6-mile (10.62 km) loop trail which features an elevation gain of 1,932 feet (588.87 m). The loop trail will provide views of the mountains, a lake, and chances to see wildflowers, and wildlife.

Speyside Way Trail

This long-distance trail extends across 66 miles (107 km) running from Aviemore through to Buckpool Harbour. This is one of two of the Great Trails found in the park.

Cateran Trail

This is a second Great Trail adventure covering a distance of 64 miles (103 km) while meandering a loop allowing visitors to enter and exit at multiple points.

Loch an Eilein Loop

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.7 miles (6 km) loop, minimal elevation gain

Description: Circumnavigating the picturesque Loch an Eilein, this family-friendly trail offers stunning views of the loch and its island castle ruins.

The path is well-defined and flat, making it accessible to all ages. Wildlife, including red squirrels and various bird species, can be seen along this tranquil forested walk.

The Lairig Ghru Trail

Rating: Challenging

Distance and Elevation Gain: 19 miles (31 km) one way, significant elevation gain

Description: One of Scotland’s most famous mountain passes, the Lairig Ghru cuts through the heart of the Cairngorms, offering breathtaking highland scenery.

This challenging trail requires good navigation skills and fitness, as it traverses rugged terrain, including boulder fields and steep sections, but rewards hikers with unparalleled views of the Cairngorms’ wild and remote beauty.

Ben Macdui Trail

Rating: Challenging

Distance and Elevation Gain: 11 miles (17.7 km) round trip, elevation gain of 2,900 feet (884 meters)

Description: As Britain’s second-highest peak, Ben Macdui offers a demanding but rewarding hike.

The trail takes you through the heart of the Cairngorms plateau, with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for a challenging hike with potentially difficult navigation.

Rothiemurchus Forest Walk

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: Variable, up to 4.3 miles (7 km) loop, minimal elevation gain

Description: Set in the beautiful Rothiemurchus Estate, this trail network winds through some of the most scenic ancient Caledonian Pine forests in Scotland.

Easy and accessible, these trails offer peaceful walks with opportunities to see local wildlife, including red deer and capercaillie, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the forest and its lochs.

The Green Loch (An Lochan Uaine)

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip, elevation gain of 150 feet (46 meters)

Description: Starting from Glenmore, this easy-to-moderate trail leads to the enchanting Green Loch, nestled among ancient pines.

The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most walkers, offering a magical destination where folklore and natural beauty intertwine.

The vivid green waters of the loch, caused by reflections from the surrounding forestry, make for a peaceful and picturesque stop.

Loch an Eilein Loop

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.7 miles (6 km) loop, minimal elevation gain

Description: Circumnavigating the picturesque Loch an Eilein, this family-friendly trail offers stunning views of the loch and its island castle ruins.

The path is well-defined and flat, making it accessible to all ages. Wildlife, including red squirrels and various bird species, can be seen along this tranquil forested walk.

The Lairig Ghru Trail

Rating: Challenging

Distance and Elevation Gain: 19 miles (31 km) one way, significant elevation gain

Description: One of Scotland’s most famous mountain passes, the Lairig Ghru cuts through the heart of the Cairngorms, offering breathtaking highland scenery.

Ben Macdui Trail

Rating: Challenging

Distance and Elevation Gain: 11 miles (17.7 km) round trip, elevation gain of 2,900 feet (884 meters)

Description: As Britain’s second-highest peak, Ben Macdui offers a demanding but rewarding hike.

The trail takes you through the heart of the Cairngorms plateau, with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for a challenging hike with potentially difficult navigation.

Rothiemurchus Forest Walk

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: Variable, up to 4.3 miles (7 km) loop, minimal elevation gain

Description: Set in the beautiful Rothiemurchus Estate, this trail network winds through some of the most scenic ancient Caledonian Pine forests in Scotland.

Easy and accessible, these trails offer peaceful walks with opportunities to see local wildlife, including red deer and capercaillie, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the forest and its lochs.

The Green Loch (An Lochan Uaine)

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip, elevation gain of 150 feet (46 meters)

Description: Starting from Glenmore, this easy-to-moderate trail leads to the enchanting Green Loch, nestled among ancient pines.

The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most walkers, offering a magical destination where folklore and natural beauty intertwine.

The vivid green waters of the loch, caused by reflections from the surrounding forestry, make for a peaceful and picturesque stop.

Park Protection

The park protects the unique upland plateau and surrounding Cairngorms mountain landscapes and many of the rare species of vegetation and wildlife located in the park. The park is protecting the only herd of reindeer located in the United Kingdom.

Sources

Aberdeenshire Scotland, 10 Reasons to Visit Cairngorms National Park, https://www.visitabdn.com/blog/10-reasons-to-visit-the-cairngorms-national-park/, retrieved July 2020.
All Trails, Best Trails in Cairngorms National Park, https://www.alltrails.com/parks/scotland/highland/cairngorms-national-park, retrieved July 2020.
Britannica, Cairngorms National Nature Reserve, https://www.britannica.com/place/Cairngorms-National-Nature-Reserve, retrieved July 2020.
Cairngorms National Park, Park Site, https://cairngorms.co.uk/, retrieved July 2020.
Cairngorms National Park, Official Site, https://visitcairngorms.com/, retrieved July 2020.
Visit Scotland, Cairngorms National Park, https://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/landscapes-nature/national-parks-gardens/cairngorms/, retrieved July 2020.