3,140 ft · Cairngorms, Scotland
Tom Buidhe
Tom Buidhe is a 3,140 ft peak in the Cairngorms, Scotland. The standard route is the Loch Callater and Jock's Road: 13 mi, 2,300 ft of gain, Class 2.
Tom Buidhe at a glance
- Elevation3,140 ft957 m
- RouteLoch Callater and Jock's RoadClass 2
- Distance13 mi2,300 ft gain
- Time8 – 10 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCairngormsScotland
Climbing the Loch Callater and Jock's Road
From Braemar, take the A93 south to the entrance of Glen Callater. Start from the Auchallater car park and walk the track past Loch Callater, then follow Jock's Road onto the plateau and cross boggy ground and the White Water to the rounded summit dome. Class 2 on faint paths and pathless peat. The White Water can be awkward to cross after rain, and the moor offers few landmarks in mist. Can also be climbed from the Glen Doll car park in Glen Clova via Jock's Road. Usually combined with Tolmount on the same outing.
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
- Stream crossing
Quests with Tom Buidhe
MunrosPeaks near Tom Buidhe
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Tom Buidhe?
Tom Buidhe is 3,140 feet (957 m) tall. It is in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
How does Tom Buidhe rank among the Munros?
At 3,140 feet, Tom Buidhe is the 203rd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Tom Buidhe?
The Loch Callater and Jock's Road is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 13 miles with 2,300 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Tom Buidhe?
Most people take 8 – 10 hours round trip on the Loch Callater and Jock's Road, covering 13 miles with 2,300 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Can a beginner hike Tom Buidhe?
Usually, if you are fit. The Loch Callater and Jock's Road is a common first summit for hikers ready for 8 – 10 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Tom Buidhe?
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 Tom Buidhe 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