Lochnagar isn’t just a beautiful Munro—it’s one of Scotland’s most beloved mountains, thanks to its dramatic cliffs, open plateau, and a little royal connection (Queen Victoria famously adored it). The classic Lochnagar circular route from Glen Muick offers a full mountain day, sweeping views, and a rewarding sense of remoteness.
Here’s your complete guide to taking on this must-do Cairngorms hike.
Quick Overview
- Location: Cairngorms National Park, Aberdeenshire
- Munro: Lochnagar (Cac Carn Beag, 1,155 m)
- Route Type: Circular
- Distance: ~18 km (11 miles)
- Time Required: 6–8 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging (long distance, exposed plateau)
- Start Point: Spittal of Glen Muick car park
- Ideal For: Munro baggers, confident hikers, landscape lovers
Getting There & Parking
The walk starts from the Spittal of Glen Muick, a remote-feeling glen about 12 miles from Ballater. A well-maintained single-track road leads to the car park.
- Parking: Large, pay-and-display (£5 per day – coins or RingGo app)
- Toilets: Basic facilities available
- Postcode (for navigation): AB35 5SU
- Tip: Arrive early on weekends—this is a popular starting point for several routes
Route Description
Section 1: Glen Muick to the Lochnagar Corrie
From the car park, head west along the clear estate path. You’ll gradually climb alongside the Allt-na-giubhsaich burn, before the path steepens near The Ladder—a zigzag section that takes you around the base of Lochnagar’s cliffs.
Soon you’ll arrive at the stunning Lochnagar Corrie, framed by dramatic granite cliffs and a remote, high-mountain atmosphere.
- Terrain: Good path, steepening as you approach the corrie
- Highlight: This viewpoint is one of the most photographed in the Cairngorms
Section 2: Ascent to Cac Carn Beag (Summit)
From the corrie rim, the path climbs steadily to the summit plateau. The final push to Cac Carn Beag (Lochnagar’s summit) involves gentle boulder-hopping and wide open views.
- Summit Features: Cairn and trig pillar
- Views: Mount Keen, Deeside, Glas Maol range, and the sprawling White Mounth plateau
- Warning: Windy and exposed—conditions can change fast
Section 3: Across the White Mounth Plateau
From the summit, follow the path southeast across the White Mounth plateau. This undulating stretch offers the chance to add additional Munros such as:
- Carn a’ Choire Bhoidheach
- Carn an t-Sagairt Mòr
- Broad Cairn
You can customise your loop depending on time, fitness, and weather.
- Navigation Tip: Paths are faint and terrain can be confusing in cloud—map and compass are essential
- Wildlife: Look out for ptarmigan, mountain hares, and golden eagles
Section 4: Descent via Glas-allt Shiel
Begin your descent by heading for Glas-allt Shiel, the lochside royal lodge built for Queen Victoria. Along the way, you’ll pass the Glas-allt waterfall and follow the shores of Loch Muick, which provides a peaceful flat finish to the walk.
- Terrain: Good track, can be loose underfoot in places
- Final Stretch: Forested trail and estate road back to the car park
Navigation & Mapping
- OS Map Required: OS Explorer OL44 (Ballater & Glen Clova)
- GPX File: Available on Peaky Baggers, Walkhighlands, AllTrails
- Essential Gear: Map, compass, and/or GPS
- Watch Out For: Featureless terrain and sudden fog—especially on the plateau
What to Bring
- Waterproof boots (with ankle support)
- Full waterproofs and layers—weather changes rapidly
- Food and water (minimum 2 litres)
- Walking poles (helpful for descent)
- Emergency bivvy or shelter recommended in winter
- Map, compass, GPS and power bank
Facilities & Refreshments
- Toilets: At Spittal of Glen Muick
- Shops & Pubs:
- Ballater: Great base with cafés, shops, and pubs
- Royal Lochnagar Distillery (optional post-hike tour)
- The Bothy Ballater: Ideal for post-hike coffee or cake
- Accommodation: Campsites, hostels, and guesthouses in Ballater and Braemar
Wildlife & Scenery
- Keep an eye out for:
- Red deer in the corrie
- Mountain hares on the plateau
- Golden eagles and buzzards
- Alpine flora around the high corries in summer
When to Go
- Best Months: May to October
- Winter: Requires full winter kit, experience, and caution
- Summer: Expect midges—bring repellent
Final Thoughts
Lochnagar is the perfect Munro for those looking for drama, distance, and a proper mountain atmosphere. The circular route showcases the best of the Cairngorms in one full-on but manageable day. Whether you’re here for the summit, the cliffs, or the royal heritage, this walk earns its place among Scotland’s finest.
📲 Don’t forget to log your summit with the Peaky Baggers app and start collecting your Cairngorm Munros.
Photo by James Montgomerie on Unsplash
