Sgòr Mòr Summit

Embark on a difficult 13.6-mile (21.9 km) hike through the quintessential Highland landscape of Cairngorms National Park. This loop from Linn of Dee takes you past magnificent ancient Caledonian Pine Forest before opening up to classic Highland views of tumbling waters and majestic high hills. You will gain 1457 feet (444 metres) in elevation, with the route typically taking around 5 hours and 54 minutes to complete. From the summit of Sgòr Mòr, you can expect extensive views of the southern Cairngorm peaks, including Ben Macdui and Derry Cairngorm.

Be prepared for varied terrain on this significant hillwalking circuit. The trail begins on compacted gravel paths but transitions to estate tracks and fainter paths as you enter Glen Lui. You will encounter boggy sections, stony ground, and heather-covered slopes, with some parts requiring careful route-finding. Good, sturdy footwear is highly recommended to handle the potentially wet and rough conditions throughout the hike.

This route is situated within the Mar Lodge Estate, managed by the National Trust for Scotland, offering a glimpse into a vast area of iconic Highland scenery. The historic Linn of Dee, where the river churns through a rocky gorge, marks the starting point. As you hike, you will pass scattered ruins of past settlements, adding historical interest to the journey. The circular stone dyke at the summit of Sgòr Mòr provides a sheltered spot to appreciate the panoramic views.