Climb Bynack More from Glenmore Lodge for a stunning and varied route through ancient pine forest, moorland and granite tors. A rewarding day walk in the Cairngorms.
Bynack More stands proud on the eastern edge of the Cairngorms plateau, offering a unique mix of granite tors, moorland wilderness, and expansive summit views. At 1,090 metres, it may not be the highest Munro in the range, but it rewards walkers with one of the more characterful and varied approaches. Starting from Glenmore Lodge, this route winds through ancient Caledonian forest, follows estate tracks across the moor, and eventually climbs to a broad, bouldery summit that feels wild and remote despite being accessible as a day walk.
This route is ideal for experienced walkers looking for a quieter Cairngorms summit with plenty of scenic interest along the way.
From Aviemore, follow signs for Glenmore and Cairngorm Mountain. Glenmore Lodge is about 8 miles from the town and has limited parking available. If full, additional parking can be found at the Reindeer Centre or Hayfield car park nearby. Public buses also run from Aviemore to Glenmore.
Start at Glenmore Lodge and follow the clear track southeast through pine forest, soon joining the Ryvoan Pass. After a kilometre or so, you’ll reach An Lochan Uaine (The Green Loch), a peaceful tarn fringed by trees a great spot for a quick break.
Continue to Ryvoan Bothy, a well-maintained shelter at the edge of the forest. From here, take the right-hand fork up a rising path across the open moorland of the Strath Nethy. The views begin to open out here, with Bynack More slowly revealing its domed summit on the horizon.
The trail becomes more defined as it climbs gradually north-east. Cross the burn via a footbridge and continue up the slope this is a steady, exposed climb across grassy ground. As you approach the summit ridge, granite boulders and tors begin to appear, giving the final section a rugged feel.
A short, rocky pull brings you to the summit cairn of Bynack More (1,090 m). On a clear day, views stretch across to Ben Macdui, Cairn Gorm, and the Lairig an Laoigh a wild and impressive panorama of the Cairngorms.
Descend by retracing your steps, with optional detours to Bynack Beg (a minor summit to the south) or a careful extension across The Saddle for more experienced navigators.
This route is well-defined and not technically difficult, but the distance, exposure, and changeable weather mean it should not be underestimated. The moorland section is exposed, so wind and rain can make conditions feel more serious. Navigation is straightforward in good visibility, but a map and compass are essential if cloud comes down.
There is no water or shelter after Ryvoan Bothy, so be sure to carry enough supplies.
Bynack More from Glenmore Lodge is a true Cairngorms classic long enough to feel like a proper day out, but accessible enough for strong hillwalkers to enjoy without needing ropes or scrambling skills. With varied terrain, iconic forest scenery, and a stunning rocky summit, it’s a highly rewarding Munro that’s often quieter than its more central neighbours.
Photo by Christie Lo on Unsplash
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