Overview
A mountaineering journey into the heart of Scotlands wilderness. On this experience we trek long miles through the UK's most spectacular glacial valley to wild camp by a loch at the feet of Scotlands third highest mountain. The ridge above waiting for us to wake the next morning and begin our climb.
Route Length
300m
Max Ratio
1:4
Experience Grade
Easy or Moderate options - Grade 1 or Grade 2 Scramble
Approach Length (Approximate)
5.5 hr
Total Trip Length
28km
Meeting location
Aviemore
Experience Duration
2 days
Pre-requisites
Very strong summer hillwalking experience. Ideally some previous experience of scrambling at Grade 1 or above.
Is it for me?
The famous Lairig Ghru is a mighty glacial pass carved arrow straight through the Cairngorm mountain plateau, Shortly after passing through the famous Chalamain Gap we enter the jaws of this massive valley on our long, long approach on the afternoon of our first day. Eventually we pass into An Garbh Choire, contender for the wildest and most impressive corrie in Scotland. There are several wild-camp options, but the finest must be the shore of Lochan Uaine, right on the shoulder of the ridge we intend to climb the next morning. Although the final slope we must climb before finally dropping your equipment may make you question that opinion! The massive geological feature of An Garbh Choire, with its four hanging corries serves as backdrop for an evening of well earned rest.
The route itself offers easy scrambling on a ridge crest in a wild and remote setting. From a broad and bouldery base it defines and narrows all the way to the distant summit. Blocky steps and ribs on rough granite offer a choice of optional lines, allowing you to choose harder and more exposed sections of climbing. Its all good though and the final steep, rocky buttress leads all too suddenly to the summit. From the top of the buttress, views from the plateau include excellent views of Northern Cairngorm Munros, such as Braeriach, Cairn Toul and Ben Macdui, and of course the complex corrie system you have just escaped.
The adventure is not over yet though, from here the continuation around An Garbh Choire and on to Braeriach isn't so much of an optional extra as the quickest way home. Luckily for us, this stroll across the 1200m high plateau is one of the best of its kind in the country. Long miles still remain, but most of it on good paths and with gravity assisting us. Plenty of time to reflect on your experience, one that is bound to stay with you for years to come.
Mountains included in route
Sgor an Lochain Uaine 1258m
Cairn Toul 1291m (optional)
Carn na Criche 1265m
Einich Cairn 1237m
Braeriach 1296m
Sron na Lairige 1184m
Additional information
This is a two day expedition to a remote venue. Camping equipment is not provided. You may climb several routes during this experience.
Multi-day experiences typically start at 8am on day one and finish at 6pm on day two. Please note that very remote crags or long routes require the experience to start earlier and finish later than this. You will be guided on the routes by an independently qualified, fully insured and competent Rock Climbing and Mountaineering Instructor. The instructor will choose routes based on your experience, fitness and preferences and will aways try to give you several options. All climbing equipment required for the route and instruction on its use is included. Clients may use their own equipment following an inspection by the Instructor. Clients must ensure they bring appropriate clothing and equipment as listed on our kit list page. In case of dangerous weather conditions an alternative activity or a full refund will be offered. Please read our Terms and Conditions for further information.