3,061 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
The Cairnwell
The Cairnwell is a 3,061 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the East Slopes from the Ski Centre: 2 mi, 980 ft of gain, Class 1.
The Cairnwell at a glance
- Elevation3,061 ft932 m
- RouteEast Slopes from the Ski CentreClass 1
- Distance2 mi980 ft gain
- Time2 – 4 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonMay – Oct
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the East Slopes from the Ski Centre
From Blairgowrie, follow the A93 north to the Cairnwell Pass, or come south from Braemar. Start from the Glenshee Ski Centre car park (parking charge) and climb the ski tracks or the grassy east slopes to the summit, which is crowded with masts and buildings. Class 1 on track and grass with small patches of boulders. The summit buildings give shelter on windy days. A chairlift runs for much of the year to within a short walk of the top. Usually combined with Carn Aosda 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 The Cairnwell
MunrosPeaks near The Cairnwell
Frequently asked questions
How tall is The Cairnwell?
The Cairnwell is 3,061 feet (932 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does The Cairnwell rank among the Munros?
At 3,061 feet, The Cairnwell is the 244th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike The Cairnwell?
The East Slopes from the Ski Centre is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 2 miles with 980 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike The Cairnwell?
Most people take 2 – 4 hours round trip on the East Slopes from the Ski Centre, covering 2 miles with 980 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike The Cairnwell?
Usually, if you are fit. The East Slopes from the Ski Centre 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 The Cairnwell?
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 The Cairnwell 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