3,202 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Càrn Liath
Càrn Liath is a 3,202 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Southwest Shoulder: 5 mi, 2,130 ft of gain, Class 1.
Càrn Liath at a glance
- Elevation3,202 ft975 m
- RouteSouthwest ShoulderClass 1
- Distance5 mi2,130 ft gain
- Time4 – 6 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Southwest Shoulder
From Blair Atholl on the A9, take the minor road east of the River Tilt through Middlebridge towards Loch Moraig. Start from the Loch Moraig car park (parking charge) and follow the estate track east to a hut, then cross a burn and climb the path up the southwest shoulder. Class 1 on a path that is steep and eroded in its upper section, with recent repair work in places. Loose stones make the descent slippery when wet, and the summit is exposed to the wind. Usually combined with Braigh Coire Chruinn-bhalgain and Carn nan Gabhar on the Beinn a' Ghlo traverse.
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
- Slippery terrain
- Low visibility
- High winds
Quests with Càrn Liath
MunrosPeaks near Càrn Liath
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Càrn Liath?
Càrn Liath is 3,202 feet (975 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Càrn Liath rank among the Munros?
At 3,202 feet, Càrn Liath is the 179th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Càrn Liath?
The Southwest Shoulder is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 5 miles with 2,130 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Càrn Liath?
Most people take 4 – 6 hours round trip on the Southwest Shoulder, covering 5 miles with 2,130 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Càrn Liath?
Usually, if you are fit. The Southwest Shoulder is a common first summit for hikers ready for 4 – 6 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Càrn Liath?
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 Liath 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