Mount Keen from Glen Esk

The Easiest Munro in the Eastern Highlands

Mount Keen is one of the best introductions to Munro-bagging in Scotland. At 939 metres, it’s the most easterly Munro and widely regarded as one of the easiest — if you take the route from Glen Esk.

The route is straightforward and non-technical, with a clear track most of the way to the top. That said, it’s still a proper day in the hills — with long open glens, moorland atmosphere, and big summit views stretching into Deeside and the Cairngorms.

Here’s how to bag this beginner-friendly Munro the right way.

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Quick Stats

• Location: Glen Esk, Angus
  
• Height: 939m
  
• Distance: Approx. 17km out and back
  
• Time: 4.5–6.5 hours
  
• Difficulty: Moderate
  
• Start Point: Car park at Invermark (end of public road in Glen Esk)
  
• OS Map: Explorer 388 (Lochnagar, Glen Muick & Glen Esk)
  
• Facilities: None on-site — nearest amenities in Edzell
  

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Route Overview

Start from the car park at Invermark, where the road ends in Glen Esk. After passing Invermark Castle ruins, follow a clear track through Glen Mark, an open and scenic glen flanked by gentle hills.

You’ll reach the Queen’s Well, a crown-shaped stone structure built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s visit in 1861. From here, the gradient begins to increase as the path zigzags up the slopes of Mount Keen via well-built stone tracks.

The final stretch is steeper and stonier, but never technical. The summit cairn sits on a wide plateau with far-reaching views on a clear day — including Lochnagar and the eastern Cairngorms.

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Terrain Breakdown

• Lower section: Land Rover track through Glen Mark
  
• Mid-section: Steady incline up moorland paths
  
• Final ascent: Stone-pitched path with loose rocky sections
  
• Descent: Retrace your steps
  

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Key Highlights

• Queen’s Well: Historic landmark with royal connections
  
• Open glen walking: Peaceful and scenic without crowds
  
• Easiest Munro status: Ideal for your first 3,000-footer
  
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for red deer, mountain hares and buzzards
  
• Far-reaching views: The eastern Grampians stretch out for miles from the summit
  

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What to Watch Out For

• The route is long (~17km) — not difficult, but it does require stamina
  
• Weather can still turn quickly — the upper sections are exposed
  
• Path is often icy or snow-covered in winter and early spring
  
• Glen Esk has no phone signal in places — plan accordingly
  

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What to Bring

• Comfortable boots (well-maintained tracks, but long day)
  
• Waterproofs and warm layers
  
• Map and compass or GPS (Peaky Baggers app for tracking)
  
• Food and 2L of water
  
• Power bank and emergency foil blanket
  
• Bin bag to pack out all rubbish — it’s a fragile glen
  

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Extensions and Alternatives

• Extend your walk with a detour into the hills east of Glen Mark (for experienced navigators)
  
• Approach from Ballater for a more remote alternative (longer route)
  
• Pair with a stay in Edzell or Glen Tanar for a relaxed weekend
  

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Final Thoughts

Mount Keen is the perfect first Munro. It’s straightforward, scenic, and rewarding — with a good path, no scrambling, and a big-sky Highland feel.

While it might not have the drama of jagged ridges or towering corries, it offers something just as good: a proper mountain day that builds your confidence and leaves you wanting more.

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Photo by Chris Flexen on Unsplash