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 Mount Keen

Ascent of Mount Keen
Mount Keen [NO409869, 939]
OS map : 43
start : Car Park at end of Glen Esk.
gridref : NO448803
summary : Glen Esk Car Park - Mount Keen - Glen Esk Car Park
distance : 16.0km.
ascent : 700m.
time taken : 6hr. 0min.

Mount Keen is the most easterly munro as well as being the hill with the most anglicised name. The hill is ascended by a long route, in that follows a good track then path. Return is as the ascent as there are few alternatives.

There is a car park at the end of the minor road at the end of Glen Esk. Usually easy parking but can be busy on sunny days.

A long walk or a bike ride. Start off by goind 200m west along the road until the track goes off right. Now the route follows this track for most of the way up Glem Mark. Passed Queens well and then Glenmark (building) itself. The track is now steep that will mitigate against a cycle. Soon after the steep section the track makes way for a path. Note just one path but two. The righthand path goes directly to the summit. The summit is marked with a trig point. This is a remote hill standing east of the main hills. Thus the views here shows the Aberdeenshire in all it's glory. (8.0kms. 700m. 3hrs. 50min.)

Time to turn back. Follow the path to the track and back down the track to the car park. (8.0kms. 00m. 2hrs. 20min.)