Ground Conditions: End of September and well into autumn. It has been a very hot summer, with serious fires in the Cairngorms centered around the area of Bynach More. Now, after some rain the ground is not as dry and there have been reports of the rivers being hard to cross. [September 2026]

Eastern Glen Shee Hills.

Situated directly north of the Glenshee ski developments, these summits sit along the boundary of the resort area while remaining largely unaffected by its infrastructure. Characteristic of the region, the terrain features smooth, grassy slopes with underlying rock that provides a firm walking surface underfoot in most weather conditions, barring heavy snow. This route ascends the two Munros positioned nearest to the A93 north of the ski complex.

Section 1:
Distance: 4 kms. | Ascent: 520 m. | Estimated Time: 2 hrs. 20 min.
The route begins just north of the main Glenshee ski area. Look for a gap in the armco barrier on the right (east) side of the A93, leading to a dedicated layby with capacity for approximately ten vehicles.

• Follow the track downhill toward the river and cross via the southern bridge.
• Proceed along the southern riverbank until reaching the path that ascends Sròn na Gaoithe. While a path is indicated on topographical maps, numerous faint tracks exist on the ground; any suitable line may be taken provided you remain east of the main summit to avoid the crags.
• Upon reaching the ridge, follow the distinct path as it heads southeast toward the midway point between Glas Maol and Cairn of Claise.
• On reaching the main ridge, turn left (northeast) and continue along the track for 1 km.
• Follow the historic boundary wall along the true crest of the ridge to the summit of Cairn of Claise, situated amidst stony ground.

Section 2: Cairn of Claise to Càrn an Tuirc
Distance: 2.5 kms. | Ascent: 60 m. | Estimated Time: 1 hrs. 0 min.

• Depart the summit of Cairn of Claise in a northerly direction to reach the col (bealach) located to the east.
• Ascend the eastern flank of Càrn an Tuirc, which offers straightforward walking across gentle, grassy slopes.

Section 3: Descent to the A93
Distance: 3.5 kms. | Ascent: 0 m. | Estimated Time: 1 hrs. 10 min.

• From the summit of Càrn an Tuirc, descend northwest toward the line of the stream, taking care to bypass the steep rocky outcrops to the north.
• Continue along the stream to reach the ruined cabin, a remnant of historical ski operations in the area.
• From the ruins, pick up a well-defined estate stalking track that leads comfortably down to the river bridge.
• Cross the bridge and ascend the short slope back to the parking area.

gemini [AI] has been used to improve the text in this description

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