4,295 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Ben Macdui
Ben Macdui is a 4,295 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Normal Route via Coire an Lochain Rim: 10 mi, 2,790 ft of gain, Class 1.
Ben Macdui at a glance
- Elevation4,295 ft1,309 m
- RouteNormal Route via Coire an Lochain RimClass 1
- Distance10 mi2,790 ft gain
- Time7 – 9 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonJun – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Normal Route via Coire an Lochain Rim
From Aviemore, follow the B970 and the Cairngorm ski road past Glenmore to the Cairngorm Mountain car park in Coire Cas (parking charge). A built path crosses below the northern corries and climbs the ridge on the west side of Coire an Lochain onto the plateau. Continue south past Lochan Buidhe and up rocky ground to the summit trig point and cairn. The path is Class 1 throughout, but the plateau is broad, exposed and notorious for whiteouts, so carry map and compass even in summer. Many walkers return over Cairn Gorm to make a loop.
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
- Low visibility
- High winds
- Rapid weather shifts
- Cornices
- Route-finding difficulty
Quests with Ben Macdui
MunrosPeaks near Ben Macdui
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Ben Macdui?
Ben Macdui is 4,295 feet (1,309 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Ben Macdui rank among the Munros?
At 4,295 feet, Ben Macdui is the 2nd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Ben Macdui?
The Normal Route via Coire an Lochain Rim is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 10 miles with 2,790 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Ben Macdui?
Most people take 7 – 9 hours round trip on the Normal Route via Coire an Lochain Rim, covering 10 miles with 2,790 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Ben Macdui?
Usually, if you are fit. The Normal Route via Coire an Lochain Rim is a common first summit for hikers ready for 7 – 9 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Ben Macdui?
The usual hiking window is June to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Ben Macdui 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