Highlight • Viewpoint
Glas Maol summit
Hiking
5.0
(52)
Mountaineering
5.0
(5)
Running
5.0
(1)
Glorious high hillwalking in a sumptuous region of the Cairngorms National Park
Many walking routes to Glas Maol begin along the Cairnwell Pass, the highest main road in the UK. Thanks to this, few high mountain summits in the Cairngorms National Park are as quick to attain.
The north western slopes of the mountain form a large part of the Glenshee Ski and Snowboard development, along with neighbours Carn Aosda and the Cairnwell. If you’re after a purer hiking experience away from the ski paraphernalia, it is best to avoid this area. Linking Glas Maol to nearby Creag Leacach is an excellent way to achieve this, earning yourself another Munro tick whilst you are at it.
Navigation is straightforward even in low cloud thanks to a drystone dyke that runs between the two summits. If you’re still not sated, it is also possible to link Glas Maol to other Munros to the north east.
The summit is a grand viewpoint for the rolling splendour of the Mounth. Neighbouring high points Carn an Tuirc and Creag Leacach look particularly splendid from the summit trig, whilst you can spy distant Lochnagar in the northeast.
Thanks to the Glenshee Ski and Snowboard development, there are plenty of hotels, B&Bs, cabins and lodges nearby. Braemar is the closest centre; the village is beautifully situated in the heart of the national park.
In calm winter conditions, Glas Maol may be achievable via Creag Leacach due to its quick access from the road and the navigational aid of the dyke. However, ice and snow underfoot may warrant the use of an ice axe and crampons.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
April 5, 2020
Hiking
July 23, 2024
Hiking
August 21, 2019
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Glas Maol summit
4.6
(23)
292
hikers
Embark on a challenging 11.7-mile (18.8 km) hike through the Cairngorms, gaining 3015 feet (919 metres) of elevation over approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. This demanding loop takes you across high, open moorland, connecting prominent peaks like Càrn an Tuirc, Cairn of Claise, Glas Maol, and Creag Leacach. You will experience varied terrain, from grassy slopes to stonier paths, with expansive views stretching across Deeside from the summit of Càrn an Tuirc.
Starting from the high elevation of the Cairnwell Pass, this route offers a head start on your ascent. Parking is typically available in a layby along the A93. Be prepared for potentially challenging navigation across the wide, featureless plateau, especially if visibility is poor. While enjoyable in summer, winter conditions demand specialized equipment and experience, so plan your visit carefully.
This high-altitude loop provides a profound sense of space as you traverse the broad, open plateau connecting several significant summits within Cairngorms National Park. The route offers excellent views towards the Broad Cairn range, showcasing the vastness of this iconic Scottish landscape. It's a rewarding experience for experienced hikers seeking a true mountain adventure.
4.6
(14)
261
hikers
16.8km
05:54
750m
750m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.4
(11)
137
hikers
13.2km
04:55
760m
760m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,050 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Saturday 17 October
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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