Hiking Highlight
Recommended by 18 hikers
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for: Cairngorms National Park
A deep glacial trough, containing the picturesque Loch Muick, rises gradually from the east in a series of huge, smooth steps to the proud Munro summit of Broad Cairn. Hikes to Broad Cairn take you to the top of this stairway to hillwalking heaven, to the beautiful and beguiling high Mounth plateau.
Walking routes to Broad Cairn usually start from Spittal of Glenmuick; from here there are numerous route permutations, some involving other Munro summits. The mountain’s finest features are the cliffs of Creag an Dubh-loch, where great overlapping slabs tower above a small lochan to the north west of the summit.
From the boulder-strewn apex, the view back down into beautiful Glenmuick is a grand one, whilst directly north rises dark, frowning Lochnagar.
The village of Ballater has a host of lodges, cottages and inns and is within driving distance of most starting points. At the western end of Loch Muick is a rather regal granite lodge that was commissioned by Queen Victoria named Glas-allt-Shiel. A bothy hides within an outbuilding around the back, perfect for getting an early start on the hill.
In full winter conditions, Broad Cairn is only recommended for experienced and equipped mountaineers.
Location: Ballater And Crathie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom
4.8
(20)
399
09:32
30.9km
1,090m
10:41
33.9km
1,290m
35
07:24
22.3km
1,040m
Broad Cairn is a rocky Munro summit above Loch Muick in Royal Deeside. Sitting above undulating grassy plains and amongst other Munro peaks, the descent down Broad Cairn's boulderfield will test tired legs.
May 20, 2022
An easier Munro, can be accessed as part of the white Mounth, or by itself by following the path to the east of Loch Muick.
June 30, 2021
Don’t try to go round the side if you’re doing an out and back to bypass the sunmit on the return - there is a small path which looks tempting but it vanishes in a bog. Took us longer that way than to just go over the top through the boulder field again.
July 31, 2024
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Location: Ballater And Crathie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom
4.8
(20)
399
09:32
30.9km
1,090m
10:41
33.9km
1,290m
35
07:24
22.3km
1,040m