3,097 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
An Socach
An Socach is a 3,097 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Baddoch and Socach Mor: 9 mi, 2,150 ft of gain, Class 2.
An Socach at a glance
- Elevation3,097 ft943 m
- RouteBaddoch and Socach MorClass 2
- Distance9 mi2,150 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Baddoch and Socach Mor
From Braemar, drive south on the A93 up Glen Clunie towards Glenshee. Start from the A93 lay-by at Baddoch, near the plantations at the head of the glen, and follow the track past the old farmhouse into the Baddoch glen. After fording the Allt Coire Fhearneasg, take a narrow path uphill towards Socach Mor, then climb the east ridge and follow the broad stony crest west past the east top to the shelter cairn. Class 2 on faint paths. The lower slopes are boggy and the ridge is featureless in mist. Can also be approached from Inverey via Glen Ey.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (30–40 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- Boggy terrain
- Stream crossing
- Low visibility
Quests with An Socach
MunrosPeaks near An Socach
Frequently asked questions
How tall is An Socach?
An Socach is 3,097 feet (943 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does An Socach rank among the Munros?
At 3,097 feet, An Socach is the 227th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike An Socach?
The Baddoch and Socach Mor is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 9 miles with 2,150 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike An Socach?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Baddoch and Socach Mor, covering 9 miles with 2,150 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike An Socach?
Usually, if you are fit. The Baddoch and Socach Mor is a common first summit for hikers ready for 6 – 8 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike An Socach?
The usual hiking window is May to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb An Socach with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list