Cairn Gorm: A Hiking Paradise
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cairn Gorm, a premier hiking destination in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Cairn Gorm, located in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers alike. With stunning views, diverse trails, and a rich ecosystem, this hiking area offers an unforgettable experience for tourists looking to explore the great outdoors. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, Cairn Gorm has something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for families, adventurers, and photographers.
A brief summary to Cairn Gorm
- Aviemore, PH22 1RB, GB
Local tips
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the Highlands.
- Start your hike early in the day to enjoy quieter trails and better views.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on the trails.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views are stunning and perfect for photography!
- Check local weather forecasts before your visit to ensure a safe hiking experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start from Aviemore, PH22 1RB. Head southwest on the A95, then take the first exit at the roundabout onto the A9. Follow the A9 for about 4 miles, then take the exit toward the B9152. Follow the B9152, and you will see signs for Cairn Gorm. There is parking available at the Cairn Gorm Mountain Resort, but please note that there may be a parking fee (approximately £5 for the day).
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Public Transportation
From Aviemore, you can take a bus to the Cairn Gorm Mountain Resort. The bus service (Service 34) runs regularly and takes about 30 minutes. Ensure to check the latest schedule as bus timings may vary. The fare is approximately £2-£3 one-way. Once you arrive at the resort, follow the signs for the funicular railway if you wish to go up the mountain, which costs about £13 for a return ticket.
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Walking
For the more adventurous, you can walk from Aviemore to Cairn Gorm. The walk is approximately 7 miles and will take about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. Follow the signs from Aviemore towards the B9152, and then take the path leading up to the mountain. Ensure you have appropriate walking gear and check the weather before you start.
Discover more about Cairn Gorm
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dinosaur kingdom
20.7 km
Discover the thrilling world of dinosaurs at Dinosaur Kingdom, an interactive attraction for families and enthusiasts in Carrbridge, Scotland.
Soldiers Head
26.7 km
Explore Soldiers Head, a stunning historical landmark in Inverness, Scotland, offering breathtaking views and deep cultural significance.
Drumin Castle
31.8 km
Discover the enchanting Drumin Castle in the Scottish Highlands, a historical gem surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Centre of Scotland Stone
34.0 km
Experience the heart of Scotland at the Centre of Scotland Stone, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking Highland landscapes.
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
36.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, a historic gem in the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Dulsie Bridge
38.0 km
Discover the historical charm and stunning natural beauty of Dulsie Bridge in Nairn, a must-see destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Atholl Estates Office
40.5 km
Explore the enchanting Atholl Estates in Perthshire, where history meets breathtaking natural landscapes in the heart of Scotland.
Blair Castle & Gardens
40.8 km
Explore the grandeur of Blair Castle & Gardens, a historical gem in the Scottish countryside, showcasing stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Ardclach Bell Tower
41.5 km
Explore Ardclach Bell Tower, a historical gem in the Scottish Highlands, where rich heritage meets stunning scenery for an unforgettable experience.
Falls of Bruar
42.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Falls of Bruar, a stunning natural attraction in the heart of Scotland, perfect for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Linn of Tummel
45.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Linn of Tummel, a nature reserve in the heart of the Perthshire Highlands, where tranquility meets stunning landscapes.
Clunie Memorial Arch
45.4 km
Discover the Clunie Memorial Arch in Kinross, a stunning historical landmark celebrating the rich heritage of Scotland's Perth and Kinross region.
The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
45.6 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of The Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry, a magical blend of art and nature that captivates visitors of all ages.
Linn Falls
45.8 km
Discover the captivating beauty of Linn Falls in Aberlour, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the Scottish Highlands.
Queen's View Visitor Centre
46.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and local flavors at Queen's View Visitor Centre, your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Scotland's Highlands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cairngorm Mountain
2.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures at Cairngorm Mountain, a top tourist attraction in the Scottish Highlands.
Cairngorm Herd
6.3 km
Experience the magic of the Cairngorm Herd, where majestic reindeer roam free in the stunning Scottish Highlands, perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Centre
6.4 km
Explore the natural wonders of Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Centre, offering hiking trails, a cozy café, and stunning views in the Scottish Highlands.
Glenmore Forest Park
6.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and adventure of Glenmore Forest Park in the Scottish Highlands, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Loch Morlich
6.5 km
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and endless outdoor adventures at Loch Morlich in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Loch Morlich Beach
6.6 km
Explore Loch Morlich Beach, a serene gem in Glenmore Forest Park, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and stunning Scottish landscapes.
Loch Morlich Watersports
6.6 km
Experience the thrill of watersports amid the stunning landscapes of Loch Morlich in the heart of Glenmore Forest Park.
Cairngorms National Park
9.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures of Cairngorms National Park, Scotland's largest national park, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Loch an Eilein, Rothiemurchus
11.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Loch an Eilein in Rothiemurchus, a perfect blend of nature, history, and outdoor adventure in the Scottish Highlands.
Rothiemurchus
12.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Rothiemurchus, a must-visit destination in the Scottish Highlands for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.
Little Landys, Rothiemurchus
12.4 km
Experience the magic of Little Landys in Rothiemurchus - a family-friendly attraction filled with adventure, creativity, and breathtaking Highland scenery.
River Quoich
12.6 km
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Craigellachie National Nature Reserve (Entrance)
13.6 km
Discover Craigellachie National Nature Reserve, a stunning natural oasis in Aviemore, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife await your exploration.
Strathspey Railway - (Aviemore Station)
13.7 km
Experience the charm of Scotland's Highlands aboard the historic Strathspey Railway, a delightful journey through time and nature.
VisitScotland Aviemore iCentre
13.8 km
Discover the best of Aviemore at the VisitScotland iCentre, your one-stop destination for exploring the stunning Cairngorms region.
Essential places to dine
Ptarmigan Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Ptarmigan Restaurant in Cairngorms National Park – where breathtaking views meet delightful local flavors.
Cairngorm Cafe
2.4 km
Experience Highland hospitality at Cairngorm Cafe with delicious local cuisine amid stunning mountain views in Aviemore.
Coylumbridge Hotel
11.7 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Coylumbridge Hotel in Aviemore - your perfect retreat amidst nature's beauty.
The Old Bridge Inn
13.5 km
Experience the heart of Scottish hospitality at The Old Bridge Inn in Aviemore - where great food meets live music in a cozy setting.
Happy Haggis
13.6 km
Experience the best fish and chips in Aviemore at Happy Haggis – a true taste of Scottish culinary tradition!
Macduis Speyside Inn Catering Ltd
13.7 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Scotland at Macduis Speyside Inn in Aviemore - where tradition meets modern fine dining.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
14.0 km
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Andersons Restaurant
16.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Andersons Restaurant in Boat of Garten - where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh
16.7 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Boathouse Restaurant on Loch Insh – where local flavors meet stunning scenery.
The Clunie Dining Room
19.2 km
Discover fine dining at The Clunie Dining Room in Braemar, where fresh seafood meets local charm amidst stunning Highland scenery.
The Loft Restaurant
40.7 km
Discover The Loft Restaurant in Bridge of Tilt – where local flavors meet stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Killiecrankie House
42.1 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Killiecrankie House in Pitlochry—where local flavors meet culinary excellence.
Victoria's Restaurant
46.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Victoria's Restaurant in Pitlochry – where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Fern Cottage Restaurant
46.4 km
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The Bridge Restaurant of Pitlochry
46.5 km
Experience exquisite Scottish cuisine at The Bridge Restaurant in Pitlochry – where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Shop At The Top
0.8 km
Explore The Shop At The Top in Aviemore for unique gifts, local crafts, and outdoor gear that embody the spirit of the Scottish Highlands.
Aviemore Gift Company
13.7 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts at Aviemore Gift Company, your one-stop shop for artisanal souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of the Highlands.
Ellis Brigham - Aviemore
13.7 km
Discover top-notch outdoor gear at Ellis Brigham, Aviemore's leading adventure sports shop, catering to all your skiing, camping, and running needs.
Mountain Warehouse
13.8 km
Discover top-quality outdoor gear and clothing at Mountain Warehouse, your essential stop in Aviemore for all adventure seekers.
Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
13.8 km
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Spey Valley Shopping
13.8 km
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Nevisport
13.9 km
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Trespass Aviemore
13.9 km
Trespass Aviemore: Your ultimate destination for outdoor clothing and equipment in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.
Cairngorm Mountain Sports
13.9 km
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Blacks
13.9 km
Visit Blacks in Aviemore for top-quality outdoor clothing and gear, ensuring you're prepared for your adventures in the stunning Cairngorms.
Avi Boutique
13.9 km
Explore unique fashion finds at Avi Boutique, the stylish clothing shop in Aviemore, perfect for elevating your travel wardrobe.
The Snug
14.0 km
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Tiso Aviemore Outdoor Experience
14.1 km
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Balliefurth Farm Shop
16.6 km
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Zip Trek Adventure Park Aviemore
17.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pine Marten Bar
6.5 km
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Woodshed Bar
11.6 km
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
13.3 km
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Mambos
13.7 km
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Cairngorm Hotel
13.7 km
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Skiing Doo
13.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of bar and restaurant at Skiing Doo, where great food and local drinks meet Highland hospitality in Aviemore.
the Balavoulin
14.0 km
Experience the charm of The Balavoulin in Aviemore, where traditional Scottish hospitality meets modern comfort in a stunning Highland setting.
The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant
16.1 km
Experience the charm of The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant, where cozy accommodations meet delightful dining in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
SUIE BAR
17.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at Suie Bar in Kincraig, where cozy ambiance meets delightful local brews and friendly service.
Bertie's Bar
19.2 km
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The Flying Stag
19.2 km
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Elsa's Bar
19.2 km
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Farquharsons Bar and Kitchen
19.3 km
Experience the best of Scottish cuisine at Farquharsons Bar and Kitchen, a top-rated gastropub in the scenic village of Braemar.
Lochanully Bar
21.2 km
Discover the warmth of Scottish hospitality at Lochanully Bar in Carrbridge, where local dishes and fine drinks create an unforgettable experience.
The Craig Bar
23.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Craig Bar in Grantown-on-Spey, where local ales and traditional fare await.
