3,274 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Broad Cairn
Broad Cairn is a 3,274 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Loch Muick and Corrie Chash: 12 mi, 2,300 ft of gain, Class 2.
Broad Cairn at a glance
- Elevation3,274 ft997 m
- RouteLoch Muick and Corrie ChashClass 2
- Distance12 mi2,300 ft gain
- Time7 – 9 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Loch Muick and Corrie Chash
From Ballater, take the B976 and turn up the minor road through Glen Muick. Start from the Spittal of Glenmuick car park (parking charge) and follow the track along the south shore of Loch Muick, then climb the zigzag track and path to the col near Corrie Chash. The final rise crosses a field of granite boulders to the cairn. Class 2 on the summit blocks. The plateau catches strong winds, and midges swarm the lochside on calm summer days. Expect a busy car park at weekends. Usually combined with Cairn Bannoch across the White Mounth plateau.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (35–55 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
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Insects
Quests with Broad Cairn
MunrosPeaks near Broad Cairn
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Broad Cairn?
Broad Cairn is 3,274 feet (997 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Broad Cairn rank among the Munros?
At 3,274 feet, Broad Cairn is the 142nd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Broad Cairn?
The Loch Muick and Corrie Chash is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 12 miles with 2,300 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Broad Cairn?
Most people take 7 – 9 hours round trip on the Loch Muick and Corrie Chash, covering 12 miles with 2,300 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Broad Cairn?
Usually, if you are fit. The Loch Muick and Corrie Chash 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 Broad Cairn?
The usual hiking window is May to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Broad Cairn?
The Loch Muick and Corrie Chash starts at about 1,350 feet, roughly 1,924 feet below the summit.
Climb Broad Cairn 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