Overview 
An excellent, pinnacled arete on the west face of the Lairig Ghru, the most famous mountain pass in the country.
 
Route Length 
Lairig Ridge 200m
 
Max Ratio 
1:2
 
Experience Grade
Lairig Ridge - Hard - Grade 4 Scramble
 
Approach Length (Approximate) 
3 hrs
 
Total Trip Length 
14km
 
Meeting location 
Aviemore
 
Experience Duration 
1 day
 
Pre-requisites 
Strong summer hillwalking experience. Some previous experience of scrambling, ideally at Grade 2 or above. 
 
Is it for me? 
The famous Lairig Ghru is a mighty glacial pass carved arrow straight through the Caingorm mountain plateau, our route climbs an intricate line on the North-East face of Sron Na Lairig, a Munro top standing as the Western guardian to this high level route. This massive geological feature serves as backdrop throughout our mountaineering route on the long, rocky ridge of the crag. The approach is long, but not tough, with some steep scree to ascend before we gain the route. 
 
The route starts steeply, but soon eases before crafty moves are made to avoid overhanging rock, another tricky move gains the ridge proper, which narrows to become a sharp pinnacled arete with superb positions throughout.
 
With some technical moves, this route touchs rock-climbing territory, but with a qualified and experienced instructor guiding you, you will have the opportunity to attack all the fine, exposed parts of this route head on.
 
From the top of the buttress, views from the plateau include excellent views of Northern Cairngorm Munros, such as Braeriach, Ben Macdui and Carn Toul. The return is much easier, a romp down easy slopes leading to our approach path and eventually the car.
 
Mountains included in route 
None
 
Additional information 
You will be guided on the route by a suitably qualified, fully insured and competent Mountaineering Instructor. All mountaineering equipment required for the route and instruction on its use is included. However, clients must ensure they bring appropriate clothing 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.