3,242 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Creag Leacach
Creag Leacach is a 3,242 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Via Meall Odhar and Glas Maol Flank: 6 mi, 1,970 ft of gain, Class 2.
Creag Leacach at a glance
- Elevation3,242 ft988 m
- RouteVia Meall Odhar and Glas Maol FlankClass 2
- Distance6 mi1,970 ft gain
- Time4 – 6 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Via Meall Odhar and Glas Maol Flank
From Blairgowrie, drive the A93 north to the Cairnwell Pass. Start from the Glenshee Ski Centre car park, cross the road bridge and climb east over Meall Odhar, then take the narrow path that contours the west flank of Glas Maol to the bealach. A wall leads south up an increasingly rocky ridge to the stony summit. Class 2 on boulders and scree. The contouring path crosses a steep slope that is avalanche prone under snow, and the rocks are slick when wet. Usually combined with Glas Maol, Cairn of Claise and Carn an Tuirc 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
- Slippery terrain
- High winds
- Low visibility
Quests with Creag Leacach
MunrosPeaks near Creag Leacach
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Creag Leacach?
Creag Leacach is 3,242 feet (988 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Creag Leacach rank among the Munros?
At 3,242 feet, Creag Leacach is the 158th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Creag Leacach?
The Via Meall Odhar and Glas Maol Flank is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 6 miles with 1,970 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Creag Leacach?
Most people take 4 – 6 hours round trip on the Via Meall Odhar and Glas Maol Flank, covering 6 miles with 1,970 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Creag Leacach?
Usually, if you are fit. The Via Meall Odhar and Glas Maol Flank 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 Creag Leacach?
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 Creag Leacach 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