Ground Conditions: The end of June was really hot - a heat wave. The view of the northern coirres from Aviemore is predominantly green with a few snow patches; as is the case with Braeriach and other hills with high corries. On the other side of Cairngorm in Ciste Meard there are deep snow fields some 10m deep in places. These patches may last out the year! [July 2026]

Ascent of An Socach

An Socach lies to the north wets of the Glen Shee ski development and as such it is easily accessible from the A93. The route here follows a track prior to ascending the hill. descent by the same route.

Park at the side of the A93 around the small wood beside the bridge. The track, that is followed, goes to Baddoch.

Cross the bridge and follow the track down the valley under An Socach. At around 3km there is a significant stream on the right, west, side. Cross the stream and then ascend the ridge to Socach Mor. From here contine more steeply up to the main summit ridge of An Socach at .938. Now follow the summit ridge for 2km to the true summit. this ridge is quite flat save for the small descent and ascent to and from a small bealach. (7.5kms. 570m. 3hrs. 20min.)

For the descent follow the main ridge back to the b=small bealach. It is then possible to descend directly to the valley. Meet the track and follow this all te way back to the A93. (8.5kms. 00m. 2hrs. 30min.)

© cairngormhills.co.uk all rights reserved 2015-2026