Hikes to Ben Macdui take you to the second highest point in the UK and the central peak of the Cairngorms’ fascinating sub-Arctic plateau. This truly is big country, containing the vast majority of Britain’s highest land. In summer, staggering sights abound, whilst winter is beautifully ethereal but very dangerous for those caught unaware.

A Cairngorm giant at the centre of ancient horror stories

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Cairngorms National Park

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Location: Braemar, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom

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Lena 🏞️

August 22, 2018

Hiking

Small stone pyramids show the way on the ascent.
In good weather / clear visibility you have a great view. In bad weather (sudden weather change) you can quickly lose your orientation (map / compass / GPS)

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Dan Hobson

February 6, 2019

Hiking

Ben Macdui is the second highest mountain in Britain. From its 4,295-foot (1,309 m) high summit, you experience breathtaking views over the Cairngorms. Accessed by both Deeside and Speyside, the summit is said to be haunted by the wraith-like Old Grey Man. While many people climb Ben Macdui every year, inexperienced hikers should not attempt in bad weather and all hikers should be well prepared in all weathers.

Trail Magazine

December 13, 2019

Hiking

If Ben Nevis is the King, Ben Macdui is the Prince. Brooding and sprawling, Britain’s second highest peak – the perennial silver medallist – is a hulk of a mountain. Remote and unforgiving, if not positively Arctic in winter, it is a demanding summit. But thousands climb it annually, determined to stand atop the Cairngorms’ throne.

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Best routes to Ben Macdui summit

4.9

(134)

1,295

hikers

1. Ben Macdui loop from Cairngorm Base Station — Cairngorms National Park

16.8km

05:52

760m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Hard

4.9

(43)

243

hikers

2. A loop of Ben Macdui, Loch Avon and Cairngorm from the Ski Centre

20.0km

08:10

1,190m

Hike a difficult 12.4-mile loop to Ben Macdui, Loch Avon, and Cairngorm from the Ski Centre, offering stunning views in Cairngorms National

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Hard

4.5

(2)

hikers

3. Ben Macdui via Derry Cairngorm loop

32.2km

11:13

1,120m

Hike the Ben Macdui via Derry Cairngorm loop, a difficult 20-mile route in Cairngorms National Park with 3660 feet of elevation gain.

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Hard

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Informations

Elevation 1,310 m

Good to know

Family Friendly

yes

Wheelchair access

Dog Friendly

yes

Weather

Today

Thursday 5 March

6°C

-2°C

98 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h

Most visited during

January

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Take Me There

Location: Braemar, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom

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Ben Macdui summit

1. Ben Macdui loop from Cairngorm Base Station — Cairngorms National Park

2. A loop of Ben Macdui, Loch Avon and Cairngorm from the Ski Centre

3. Ben Macdui via Derry Cairngorm loop

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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