Highlight • Summit
Ben Macdui summit
Hiking
4.9
(137)
Mountaineering
5.0
(5)
Mountain biking
5.0
(3)
A Cairngorm giant at the centre of ancient horror stories
All walking routes to Ben Macdui are long and committing, particularly if there is any hint of snow. The skier’s car park on Cairn Gorm is the best way to gobble up some of the ascent before the expedition begins, but it’s a long day even then. Aviemore makes for the best base, with many amenities and accommodation options. For a wilder option, cowering beneath the Devil’s Point in the Lairig Ghru, the Corrour bothy is an atmospheric place to spend a night. And, of course, you can always wild camp.
The summit is said to be the stalking ground of the legendary Am Fear Liath Mór, or the Grey Man of Ben Macdui. This ghostly apparition supposedly haunts the environs of the plateau and many hikers and mountaineers have reported feeling a presence on the mountain. It could be that the remoteness, the harshness of the elements, the starkness of the surroundings and the tangible sense of wilderness lead the superstitious to imagine such a thing. Who knows?
Ghost or not, the summit is a sensational viewpoint on a clear day. Across the Lairig Ghru pass, Cairn Toul, Sgor an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach rise above the most incredible complex of corries anywhere in Britain, an unforgettable sight. The view down Glen Dee, past the conspicuous form of the Devil’s Point, is the epitome of Highland grandeur.
In winter conditions, the Cairngorms are the UK’s most dangerous mountains due to the distances involved, potentially savage conditions and navigational difficulties. Ben Macdui is certainly the preserve of experienced mountaineers during this time.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
August 22, 2018
Hiking
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)
•February 6, 2019
Hiking
December 13, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ben Macdui summit
4.9
(135)
1,306
hikers
16.8km
05:52
760m
760m
Embark on the difficult Ben Macdui loop from Cairngorm Base Station, a challenging hike covering 10.5 miles (16.8 km) with an elevation gain of 2498 feet (761 metres), typically taking 5 hours and 51 minutes. The trail begins on well-constructed paths before transitioning to rugged mountain terrain, extensive boulder fields, and stony tundra. You will traverse the vast, arctic-like Cairngorm Plateau, offering a wild and remote feeling with panoramic views from the summit of Ben Macdui and glimpses of the serene Lochan Buidhe, considered the highest body of water in the British Isles.
This loop demands a very good level of fitness and sure-footedness, as much of the route is exposed above the treeline. You should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and potential low visibility, which can make navigation challenging across the featureless plateau. Sturdy shoes, alpine experience, and strong navigation skills using a map and compass are essential for your safety on this demanding route. Snow patches can linger into late spring, further adding to the trail's character.
The Ben Macdui loop is notable for leading you to the summit of Ben Macdui, Scotland's second-highest mountain at 1,309 metres. Starting from the high elevation of the Cairngorm Mountain ski station car park, the trail offers a unique opportunity to experience an arctic-like environment rare in Scotland, complete with rolling tundra and the potential for year-round snow. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as ptarmigan, golden eagles, and even reindeer as you explore this remote and wild corner of Cairngorms National Park.
4.9
(43)
249
hikers
20.0km
08:10
1,190m
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
4.5
(2)
39
hikers
32.2km
11:13
1,120m
1,120m
Embark on a truly wild and expansive hiking adventure with the Ben Macdui via Derry Cairngorm loop. This difficult route covers 20.0 miles (32.2 km) and involves a significant ascent of 3660 feet (1115 metres), typically taking around 11 hours and 12 minutes to complete. You will experience a varied landscape, from the panoramic views atop Derry Cairngorm, looking out towards Ben Macdui and Coire Uaine, to traversing Ben Macdui's vast, boulder-strewn plateau. The trail also guides you through serene pine woods and past the picturesque Lochan Uaine, offering a diverse and rewarding experience.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration, as this is a hard hike demanding very good fitness and sure-footedness. You should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially on the exposed, arctic-like plateau. During winter, the conditions become even more challenging, necessitating ice axes, crampons, and expert navigation skills due to the presence of snow, ice, and the potential for whiteouts. Always check the forecast and pack accordingly for a full day in the mountains.
This circuit is notable for its truly wild character and the sweeping vistas it provides across the Cairngorms National Park. From the summit of Derry Cairngorm, you gain a unique perspective of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The journey across Ben Macdui's plateau, one of the highest points in the UK, offers an unparalleled sense of remoteness and grandeur, making it a standout experience for those seeking a challenging and immersive mountain trek.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,310 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Tuesday 5 May
5°C
-3°C
19 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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