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Walking the Big Hills of the Cairngorms"

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 Meall Chuaich

Meall Chuaich is set well east of the A9 but is easily accessible due to the power station up the valley. Indeed some people will cycle to the foot of the hill from the A9 along the good road then track. Meall Chuaich is an isolated hill and has some good views over to the main Cairngorm hills and also south towards Perthshire.

Roadside layby just N of Dalwhinnie village. Park on the grass verge either side of the gate.

Start through the gate and then walk or cycle along the tarmaced road to the junction just short of the loch (NN690870). Here is a building where it is convenient to leave a cycle if needed. Continue along this track for 0.5km. then ascend the steep south west ridge of the hill. Follow the steep ridge to the shoulder and then east onto the main summit. The higher slopes are much easier walking than lower down due to lower vegitation and stones underfoot. The final slopes of Meall Chuaich are stony but the summit is flat and mossy. The top is marked with a cairn. (7kms. 630m. 3hrs. 20min.)

There is not much option to returning except by the uphill route. Follow the top ridge east and then descend the south west spur of the hill to the building. this is where cyclists have an advantage - it is an exhilarating and speedy descent on the tracks back to the start - a more restrained final descent is required of walkers.(5kms. 170m. 1hrs. 50min.)

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