4,085 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Cairn Gorm
Cairn Gorm is a 4,085 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Windy Ridge Path: 4 mi, 2,100 ft of gain, Class 1.
Cairn Gorm at a glance
- Elevation4,085 ft1,245 m
- RouteWindy Ridge PathClass 1
- Distance4 mi2,100 ft gain
- Time3 – 5 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonJun – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Windy Ridge Path
From Aviemore, follow the B970 and the Cairngorm ski road past Loch Morlich to the Cairngorm Mountain car park in Coire Cas (parking charge). Pass the day lodge, go under the funicular and climb the stepped Windy Ridge path on Sron an Aonaich to the Ptarmigan station, then follow the Class 1 path over stony ground to the summit cairn and weather station. The funicular cannot be used by walkers to descend. Gales and sudden cloud are common, and the corrie rims to the west carry cornices into spring. Often extended round the northern corries or on to Ben Macdui.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 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
- Rapid weather shifts
- Cornices
Quests with Cairn Gorm
MunrosPeaks near Cairn Gorm
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Cairn Gorm?
Cairn Gorm is 4,085 feet (1,245 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Cairn Gorm rank among the Munros?
At 4,085 feet, Cairn Gorm is the 6th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Cairn Gorm?
The Windy Ridge Path is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 4 miles with 2,100 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Cairn Gorm?
Most people take 3 – 5 hours round trip on the Windy Ridge Path, covering 4 miles with 2,100 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Cairn Gorm?
Usually, if you are fit. The Windy Ridge Path is a common first summit for hikers ready for 3 – 5 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Cairn Gorm?
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 Cairn Gorm 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