3,402 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Càrn a' Mhàim
Càrn a' Mhàim is a 3,402 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the South Ridge: 14 mi, 2,130 ft of gain, Class 1.
Càrn a' Mhàim at a glance
- Elevation3,402 ft1,036 m
- RouteSouth RidgeClass 1
- Distance14 mi2,130 ft gain
- Time8 – 10 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the South Ridge
From Braemar, drive west to the Linn of Dee car park (parking charge, free for National Trust for Scotland members). Walk or cycle the Glen Lui track to Derry Lodge, cross the Derry Burn and follow the Glen Luibeg path over a boggy clearing to the Luibeg Burn, which is hard to cross in spate. A repaired Class 1 path then climbs steeply northwest onto the south ridge and the summit. Beyond the top a long, narrow ridge runs toward Ben Macdui, and many walkers continue that way. The upper ridge is exposed to wind, so bring layers.
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
- Stream crossing
- Boggy terrain
- High winds
- Low visibility
Quests with Càrn a' Mhàim
MunrosPeaks near Càrn a' Mhàim
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Càrn a' Mhàim?
Càrn a' Mhàim is 3,402 feet (1,036 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Càrn a' Mhàim rank among the Munros?
At 3,402 feet, Càrn a' Mhàim is the 95th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Càrn a' Mhàim?
The South Ridge is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 14 miles with 2,130 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Càrn a' Mhàim?
Most people take 8 – 10 hours round trip on the South Ridge, covering 14 miles with 2,130 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Can a beginner hike Càrn a' Mhàim?
Usually, if you are fit. The South Ridge is a common first summit for hikers ready for 8 – 10 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Càrn a' Mhàim?
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 Càrn a' Mhàim 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