3,009 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Càrn Aosda
Càrn Aosda is a 3,009 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Ski Centre Track: 2 mi, 920 ft of gain, Class 1.
Càrn Aosda at a glance
- Elevation3,009 ft917 m
- RouteSki Centre TrackClass 1
- Distance2 mi920 ft gain
- Time2 – 4 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonMay – Oct
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Ski Centre Track
From Braemar, drive south on the A93, or north from Blairgowrie, to the Cairnwell Pass. Start from the Glenshee Ski Centre car park (parking charge) and follow the vehicle track that zigzags up through the ski runs, then a short stony path to the small summit cairn. Class 1 on track and path. Ski tows, fences and bulldozed ground cover the lower slopes. The top is exposed to strong winds and cloud can drop quickly. One of the shortest Munro ascents in Scotland. Usually combined with The Cairnwell and Carn a' Gheoidh on a round from the pass.
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
Quests with Càrn Aosda
MunrosPeaks near Càrn Aosda
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Càrn Aosda?
Càrn Aosda is 3,009 feet (917 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Càrn Aosda rank among the Munros?
At 3,009 feet, Càrn Aosda is the 278th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Càrn Aosda?
The Ski Centre Track is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 2 miles with 920 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Càrn Aosda?
Most people take 2 – 4 hours round trip on the Ski Centre Track, covering 2 miles with 920 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Càrn Aosda?
Usually, if you are fit. The Ski Centre Track is a common first summit for hikers ready for 2 – 4 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Càrn Aosda?
The usual hiking window is May to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Càrn Aosda 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