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 Geal Charn

Ascent of Geal Charn
Geal Charn [NN562988, 925]
OS map : 35
start : Spey Dam
gridref : NN582736
summary : Spey Dam - Geal Charn - Spet Dam
distance : 12.5km.
ascent : 650m.
time taken : 5hr. 0min.

Geal Charn lies in the Monaliath, remote from the other Munros. The route is from Spey Dam just west of Laggan and up Glen Markie.

Follow the minor road west of Laggan and park at Spey Dam just as the road crosses the Spey. Good parking alongside the road.

From Spey bridge follow the track,initially west then over the dam and north up Glen Markie. Follow the track to the foot of Piper' Brun. Cross the Markie Burn and then follow up the hillside in a north westerly direction, keeping to the hillside east of the lochan to the main Monadliath ridge. Trun south west and follow the ridge to the summit. (7.5kms. 650m. 3hrs. 30min.)

The descent is usually by the uphill route as if a circular route is contenplated in wet weather the Markie Burn is difficult to cross. Follow the main ridge north east and then, when the rocks allow, turn south west to the Piper' Burn and down to the Marki Burn. Back to Spey bridge along the track.(5kms. 0m. 1hrs. 30min.)