Stob Coire an t-Sneachda Summit
Stob Coire an t-Sneachda Summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Stob Coire an t-Sneachda Summit
Hiking
5.0
(195)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 23, 2022
Hiking
It is separated from Corie an Lochain by an enticing ridgeline. This is the Fiacaill Ridge, an exciting grade II scramble for hikers.
February 4, 2019
Hiking
August 15, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Stob Coire an t-Sneachda Summit
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Embark on the difficult Ben Macdui loop from Cairngorm Base Station, a challenging hike covering 10.5 miles (16.8 km) with an elevation gain of 2498 feet (761 metres), typically taking 5 hours and 51 minutes. The trail begins on well-constructed paths before transitioning to rugged mountain terrain, extensive boulder fields, and stony tundra. You will traverse the vast, arctic-like Cairngorm Plateau, offering a wild and remote feeling with panoramic views from the summit of Ben Macdui and glimpses of the serene Lochan Buidhe, considered the highest body of water in the British Isles.
This loop demands a very good level of fitness and sure-footedness, as much of the route is exposed above the treeline. You should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and potential low visibility, which can make navigation challenging across the featureless plateau. Sturdy shoes, alpine experience, and strong navigation skills using a map and compass are essential for your safety on this demanding route. Snow patches can linger into late spring, further adding to the trail's character.
The Ben Macdui loop is notable for leading you to the summit of Ben Macdui, Scotland's second-highest mountain at 1,309 metres. Starting from the high elevation of the Cairngorm Mountain ski station car park, the trail offers a unique opportunity to experience an arctic-like environment rare in Scotland, complete with rolling tundra and the potential for year-round snow. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as ptarmigan, golden eagles, and even reindeer as you explore this remote and wild corner of Cairngorms National Park.
4.8
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04:31
730m
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Embark on the Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Trail, a challenging hike that takes you through dramatic scenery and varied terrain in Cairngorms National Park. This difficult route covers 7.1 miles (11.4 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2389 feet (728 metres), typically requiring about 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete. As you ascend, you'll experience paths that sometimes disappear on the plateau, leading to glorious views across the vast mountain range, including the Rothiemurchus forest, and sensational vistas down into the corries.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration, as this trail is highly exposed, and weather conditions at the summit can be extremely difficult, with high winds being common. A good to very good level of fitness is essential for this hike. In winter, the difficulty escalates significantly, demanding exceptional navigational skills, an ice-axe, and crampons due to avalanche risks and obscured cliff edges. Always check the forecast and be prepared for rapid changes in conditions.
From the Cairn Gorm Summit, you are rewarded with impressive 360-degree views of the Scottish Highlands, where mountain ridges intertwine into the horizon. This alpine semi-tundra habitat is unique, and you might even spot patches of snow year-round. The route is best suited for experienced hillwalkers who are comfortable with demanding conditions and navigating in potentially challenging environments.
5.0
(3)
50
hikers
21.1km
08:59
1,480m
1,480m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,170 m
Weather
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Tuesday 12 May
7°C
-2°C
83 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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