3,087 ft · Central Highlands, Scotland
Carn na Caim
Carn na Caim is a 3,087 ft peak in the Central Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Normal Route via the Drumochter Plateau Track: 7 mi, 1,840 ft of gain, Class 1.
Carn na Caim at a glance
- Elevation3,087 ft940 m
- RouteNormal Route via the Drumochter Plateau TrackClass 1
- Distance7 mi1,840 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCentral HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Normal Route via the Drumochter Plateau Track
From Dalwhinnie, head south on the A9 toward the Pass of Drumochter. Start from Layby 88 on the A9, cross the busy road carefully and follow the rough vehicle track that climbs steeply east onto the plateau. Most of the height comes in this first climb. Follow the track and a line of fence posts north across a shallow, boggy dip to the small summit cairn. The route is Class 1. Usually combined with A' Bhuidheanach Bheag along the plateau. The tops are wide and featureless, which makes navigation hard in mist or snow, and wind sweeps the open ground.
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
- Low visibility
- Boggy terrain
- High winds
Quests with Carn na Caim
MunrosPeaks near Carn na Caim
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Carn na Caim?
Carn na Caim is 3,087 feet (940 m) tall. It is in the Central Highlands, Scotland.
How does Carn na Caim rank among the Munros?
At 3,087 feet, Carn na Caim is the 232nd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Carn na Caim?
The Normal Route via the Drumochter Plateau Track is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 7 miles with 1,840 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Carn na Caim?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Normal Route via the Drumochter Plateau Track, covering 7 miles with 1,840 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Carn na Caim?
Usually, if you are fit. The Normal Route via the Drumochter Plateau Track is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Carn na Caim?
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 Carn na Caim 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