CORVID-19 is still with us even though most restrictions have been relaxed in Scotland. The risks of infection are lower if outside, there is still a risk if mixing in large groups. Even so, please do not go out in the Cairngorms, or anywhere else, if you are showing signs of Corvid-19 and when out walking make sure you give people space - 1m at least and preferable 2m. Remember that if it feels too crowded then you can walk away and try somewhere else, the hills will still be there tomorrow. Also remember the MRT. They will come out to rescue you but they should not have to put themselves into danger from this virus.

A number of these routes start and finish at the main Cairngorm car park. Currently there is significant building work being undertaken in repairing the funicular. The site is fenced off to keep people out but there are routes across the work for walkers. Please keep out of this dangerous building site and follow the contractor's instructions.

Ascent of An Socach

Ascent of An Socach
An Socach [NO080800, 944]
OS map : 43
start : A93 nr Baddoch.
gridref : NO139832
summary : A93 nr Baddoch - An Socach - A93 new Baddoch
distance : 16.0km.
ascent : 570m.
time taken : 5hr. 50min.

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.)