Cairn of Claise summit
Cairn of Claise summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Cairn of Claise summit
Hiking
5.0
(30)
Mountaineering
5.0
(5)
Cairn of Claise Summit is a prominent Munro nestled within the majestic Grampian Mountains of Scotland, forming part of the expansive Cairngorms National Park. Standing at 1,064 metres (3,491 feet), this mountain is renowned for its position on a vast, high-level plateau, offering a gateway to several other Munros. Its name, "Hill of the hollows," hints at the surrounding landscape, which includes the dramatic Garbh Choire on its western face.
What truly draws hikers to Cairn of Claise is its stunning setting and the excellent 360-degree panoramic mountain views from the top. Visitors consistently praise the sweeping vistas over the Mounth, the Broad Cairn range, and towards the cliffs of Glas Maol. While the summit itself is a gentle rise, the reward is the sense of achievement and the expansive beauty of the Scottish Highlands stretching in every direction.
For those planning a visit, Cairn of Claise is generally considered an intermediate hike, especially when tackled as part of a multi-Munro circuit. The terrain typically involves a mix of paths and grassy slopes, but the extensive plateau can present navigational challenges in poor visibility. A convenient lay-by just north of the Glenshee Ski Centre, located on the A93, serves as a popular starting point, making Cairn of Claise Summit parking relatively straightforward.
The best time to visit depends on your hiking experience and desired conditions. While accessible for much of the year, the mountain's elevation means weather can change rapidly, requiring appropriate gear for all seasons. Many hikers choose to combine Cairn of Claise with neighbouring peaks like Carn an Tuirc, Tolmount, and Tom Buidhe, creating rewarding Cairn of Claise Summit walking routes that maximize the experience of this unique plateau.
While the summit itself may lack dramatic crags, its distinctive features include a large cairn and a well-preserved stone wall, which historically marked an old county boundary. These Cairn of Claise Summit landmarks add character to the otherwise open landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as ptarmigan and golden plover, which are often spotted rambling across the mountainside.
Hikers often describe the satisfaction of reaching the top, especially when it's the fourth Munro bagged in a single day. The relatively accessible paths from Glenshee, combined with the opportunity to link multiple peaks, make it a popular choice for those looking for a rewarding day out. The views over the Mounth are frequently highlighted as a particular treat.
Whether you're seeking a challenging multi-Munro adventure or a more direct ascent, there are numerous Cairn of Claise Summit trails for various skill levels. Explore the diverse walking routes available to plan your perfect trip to this intermediate Scottish peak. You can find detailed maps and route suggestions to help you navigate the stunning terrain and discover the best Cairn of Claise Summit viewpoints.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Cairn of Claise summit
4.6
(22)
294
hikers
Embark on a challenging 11.7-mile (18.8 km) hike through the Cairngorms, gaining 3015 feet (919 metres) of elevation over approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. This demanding loop takes you across high, open moorland, connecting prominent peaks like Càrn an Tuirc, Cairn of Claise, Glas Maol, and Creag Leacach. You will experience varied terrain, from grassy slopes to stonier paths, with expansive views stretching across Deeside from the summit of Càrn an Tuirc.
Starting from the high elevation of the Cairnwell Pass, this route offers a head start on your ascent. Parking is typically available in a layby along the A93. Be prepared for potentially challenging navigation across the wide, featureless plateau, especially if visibility is poor. While enjoyable in summer, winter conditions demand specialized equipment and experience, so plan your visit carefully.
This high-altitude loop provides a profound sense of space as you traverse the broad, open plateau connecting several significant summits within Cairngorms National Park. The route offers excellent views towards the Broad Cairn range, showcasing the vastness of this iconic Scottish landscape. It's a rewarding experience for experienced hikers seeking a true mountain adventure.
4.6
(9)
93
hikers
Embark on a challenging 13.1 miles (21.1 km) hike through the Cairngorms National Park, gaining 3110 feet (948 metres) in elevation. This difficult route, estimated to take 6 hours and 55 minutes, offers expansive panoramic views across the rugged Scottish landscape. From the summit of Carn an Tuirc, you can gaze upon extensive vistas to the north-west, while Tolmount provides clear sightlines down to Glen Callater and across to Coire Loch Kander, showcasing the wild beauty of the highlands.
Planning your visit requires a good level of fitness due to the route's length and significant ascent. Be prepared for varied terrain, which includes boggy sections, boulder fields, and peat hags. Navigation on the high moorland plateau can be particularly tricky, especially if visibility is poor, so ensure you have proficient navigation skills before setting out on this demanding adventure.
This loop is renowned for allowing you to bag four Munros: Carn an Tuirc, Cairn of Claise, Tolmount, and Tom Buidhe. These prominent peaks make the trail a significant achievement for any hiker looking to conquer multiple Scottish mountains in a single outing. The experience offers a deep immersion into the unique natural environment of the Cairngorms, a region celebrated for its vast, untamed wilderness.
4.3
(3)
76
hikers
29.1km
08:37
810m
810m
Embark on the Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop from Auchallater, a challenging 18.1-mile (29.1 km) hike that offers a true sense of the Scottish wilderness. This difficult route involves a significant 2643 feet (806 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 8 hours and 36 minutes to complete. As you ascend, you will encounter varied terrain, from tussocky grass and blaeberry to notoriously boggy ground and pathless sections on the high plateau. From Tolmount's summit, panoramic views stretch across the vast Mounth plateau and into Glen Callater, with distant snow-capped Cairngorms visible on clear days, while Tom Buidhe provides clear views towards Lochnagar and the White Mounth mountains.
Planning your visit requires good stamina due to the length and elevation. Navigation can be tricky, especially in poor visibility, because of vast, featureless sections of the plateau. While some ascents are gradual, the overall distance demands very good fitness. Winter ascents are possible but require experienced hikers equipped with four-season boots, an ice axe, and crampons. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions in the Cairngorms, as the mountain environment can be unforgiving.
This loop is a popular choice for Munro bagging, as both Tolmount (958 metres) and Tom Buidhe (957 metres) are Munros, often climbed together. The trail frequently incorporates sections of Jock's Road, an ancient and arduous drovers' path with significant historical importance regarding access rights in Scotland. Along Jock's Road, you might also find Davies's Stone, an emergency shelter marking a tragic event from 1959, which serves as a stark reminder of the serious nature of hiking in these mountains. This route offers an exhilarating sense of isolation on the expansive Mounth plateau.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,040 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Monday 29 June
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8°C
75 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular walking routes to Cairn of Claise Summit?
While a direct ascent from Glenshee is possible, many hikers choose to combine Cairn of Claise with other Munros on the expansive plateau. Popular multi-Munro circuits often include Carn an Tuirc, Tolmount, and Tom Buidhe, offering a rewarding day out for experienced hikers. These routes typically start from the lay-by near Glenshee Ski Centre.
What is the typical elevation gain and distance for a hike to Cairn of Claise Summit?
Cairn of Claise Summit stands at an elevation of 1,063.1 meters (3,488 feet) or 1,064 meters (3,491 feet). The elevation gain and distance can vary significantly depending on your chosen starting point and whether you're undertaking a single ascent or a multi-Munro circuit. For a typical intermediate route from Glenshee, expect a significant ascent over several kilometers, often taking 4-6 hours for a round trip, especially if bagging multiple peaks.
Are there any public transport options to reach Cairn of Claise Summit?
Public transport options directly to the immediate vicinity of Cairn of Claise Summit are limited. The most common approach is by car, utilizing the lay-by parking near the Glenshee Ski Centre on the A93. Hikers relying on public transport would likely need to arrange for a taxi from nearby towns with bus services, such as Braemar or Blairgowrie, which can be costly.
Are permits required to hike Cairn of Claise Summit?
No, permits are not required to hike Cairn of Claise Summit. As part of the Scottish Highlands, access to the mountains is generally open under Scotland's 'right to roam' laws, provided you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Is Cairn of Claise Summit suitable for winter hiking, and what gear is recommended?
Cairn of Claise Summit can be hiked in winter, but it requires significant experience and appropriate gear due to challenging seasonal conditions. The extensive plateau can become featureless in poor visibility, and weather can change rapidly. Essential winter gear includes ice axe, crampons, waterproof and windproof layers, warm clothing, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), and sufficient food and water. Always check the mountain weather forecast before heading out.
Are there any family-friendly or dog-friendly trails around Cairn of Claise Summit?
While Cairn of Claise is generally considered an intermediate hike, its grassy, gently rising slopes can be manageable for families with older, experienced children. However, the extensive nature of the plateau and potential for navigational challenges in poor weather should be considered. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but should be kept under close control, especially during lambing season or near wildlife, and all waste must be carried out.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the way to Cairn of Claise Summit?
The terrain leading to Cairn of Claise Summit is characterized by a mix of paths and grassy slopes, particularly when approached from Glenshee. The summit itself is a relatively gentle rise on a wide, high-level plateau. While generally straightforward, the featureless nature of the plateau can present navigational challenges, especially in mist or snow. The western face features Garbh Choire, a corrie with steeper, stony slopes.
Where can I find accommodation or cafes near Cairn of Claise Summit?
The Glenshee Ski Centre, located nearby, may offer seasonal facilities. For more substantial options, you'll need to venture to nearby towns. Braemar, to the north, and Blairgowrie, to the south, offer a range of accommodation, pubs, and cafes suitable for pre- or post-hike refreshments and stays.
What wildlife might I encounter on Cairn of Claise Summit?
Hikers on Cairn of Claise Summit have the opportunity to spot various mountain wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds such as ptarmigan and golden plover, which are often seen rambling about the mountainside. The wider Grampian area is also home to red deer and other species, though they may be more elusive.
What are the main landmarks or features to look out for on Cairn of Claise Summit?
The summit of Cairn of Claise is marked by a prominent large cairn, a human-made pile of stones. Another notable feature is a well-built stone wall that runs along the crest near the summit, historically marking an old county boundary. These landmarks are particularly useful for navigation on the wide plateau, especially in less-than-ideal visibility.
Are there any circular walks available for Cairn of Claise Summit?
Yes, many hikers create circular routes by combining Cairn of Claise with its neighboring Munros on the expansive plateau. Popular circular options often involve linking it with peaks like Carn an Tuirc, Tolmount, and Tom Buidhe, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the area and a return to the starting point near Glenshee Ski Centre.