3,343 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Càrn an Tuirc
Càrn an Tuirc is a 3,343 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the West Slopes from Glen Clunie: 4 mi, 1,840 ft of gain, Class 2.
Càrn an Tuirc at a glance
- Elevation3,343 ft1,018 m
- RouteWest Slopes from Glen ClunieClass 2
- Distance4 mi1,840 ft gain
- Time3 – 5 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the West Slopes from Glen Clunie
From Braemar, drive south on the A93 through Glen Clunie. Start from the A93 lay-by at Sean Spittal Bridge, cross the Clunie Water and follow a path up beside the burn past a ruined hut. Leave the path and climb the steep west slopes to the summit boulder field. Class 2 on rough grass and scree, with some loose stones near the top. Traversing a little north avoids the worst scree. The plateau is exposed and can be confusing in mist. Usually combined with Cairn of Claise, Tolmount and Tom Buidhe on a round from Glen Clunie.
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
- Loose rock
- Low visibility
- High winds
Quests with Càrn an Tuirc
MunrosPeaks near Càrn an Tuirc
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Càrn an Tuirc?
Càrn an Tuirc is 3,343 feet (1,018 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Càrn an Tuirc rank among the Munros?
At 3,343 feet, Càrn an Tuirc is the 112th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Càrn an Tuirc?
The West Slopes from Glen Clunie is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 4 miles with 1,840 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Càrn an Tuirc?
Most people take 3 – 5 hours round trip on the West Slopes from Glen Clunie, covering 4 miles with 1,840 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Càrn an Tuirc?
Usually, if you are fit. The West Slopes from Glen Clunie 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 Càrn an Tuirc?
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 an Tuirc 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