3,101 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Càrn Bhac
Càrn Bhac is a 3,101 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Glen Ey and Grouse Butt Ridge: 11 mi, 2,170 ft of gain, Class 2.
Càrn Bhac at a glance
- Elevation3,101 ft945 m
- RouteGlen Ey and Grouse Butt RidgeClass 2
- Distance11 mi2,170 ft gain
- Time7 – 9 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Glen Ey and Grouse Butt Ridge
From Braemar, take the minor road west along the Dee to Inverey. Start from the Inverey car park and follow the track up Glen Ey, crossing the Ey Burn, then climb the ridge beside the Alltan Odhar past a line of grouse butts. Beyond them, cross wet ground and moss to the stony summit dome. Class 2, mostly pathless in the upper section. The broad top is easy to wander off in mist, so carry map and compass. During the stalking season the estate posts route notices at the glen entrance. Usually combined with Beinn Iutharn Mhor on a long Glen Ey round.
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
- Boggy terrain
- Low visibility
- Remote location
Quests with Càrn Bhac
MunrosPeaks near Càrn Bhac
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Càrn Bhac?
Càrn Bhac is 3,101 feet (945 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Càrn Bhac rank among the Munros?
At 3,101 feet, Càrn Bhac is the 224th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Càrn Bhac?
The Glen Ey and Grouse Butt Ridge is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 11 miles with 2,170 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Càrn Bhac?
Most people take 7 – 9 hours round trip on the Glen Ey and Grouse Butt Ridge, covering 11 miles with 2,170 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Càrn Bhac?
Usually, if you are fit. The Glen Ey and Grouse Butt Ridge 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 Càrn Bhac?
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 Bhac 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