Surrounded by mystical mists in the morning or the shimmering colours of the setting sun, Lochnagar opens the magical gates of imagination and inspiration. The local people say, ‘This mountain has a soul’.
The detailed route descriptions from Walkinghighlands will help you optimize your trek to the Lochnagar peak.
Lochnagar is one of the most famous Munros in Scotland. Overlooking Deeside, the majestic mountain awaits hikers from around the world to come and explore it.
You will have the chance to admire an area of the Cairngorms National Park – one of Scotland's greatest natural treasures. The Cairngorms mountain range is famous for its unique tundra landscapes. The region resembles true arctic wilderness due to the harsh climatic conditions and abundance of snow in winter, and it is often called the 'Scottish Arctic'.
Breath-taking scenery and diverse wildlife make Lochnagar a designated scenic area (one of 40 such areas in Scotland). Do not forget to pack your binoculars and camera to spot magnificent fauna, such as deers, golden eagles or mountain ptarmigans.
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The Lochnagar range is popular with hikers and climbers all year round. It is a perfect day out during the bright summer months. Extra safety precautions and proper equipment are necessary for a winter adventure. Regardless, you are climbing a Munro, so always rely on your common sense.
Park at Glen Muick car park, and follow the path to the information hut across the bridge. There, you will find some handy information boards describing the area, optional trails and safety rules.
Spittal of Glenmuick was once a lively place, as one of the main routes connecting the north and south of the country ran through it for centuries. Today, the remnants of some stone buildings remind us of an abandoned village inhabited 200 years ago.
The Lochnagar's key feature is a north-facing corrie beneath the summit. Take your time at the bealach (pass) to enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in the Scottish Highlands – the imposing mountain amphitheatre towering over the lochan. This completes the first stage of the hike. Alternatively, you can take a short detour to the top of the nearby Meikle Pap for better views.
Return to the trail to reach the plateau. The path will take you along the edge of the cliffs. Pass an imposing cairn at Cac Carn Mor and continue to the central peak of Cac Carn Beag, which is situated a short distance after the cliffs. This is a place where Queen Victoria once stood. Lochnagar lies close to the royal residence of Balmoral. Victoria's diaries confirm that the Lochnagar area was a frequent destination for herself and the other members of the royal family, including Prince Albert, her beloved husband. Queen Elizabeth II often climbed to the top during her summer stays at Balmoral. Lochnagar also inspired King Charles III (then Prince) to write a short children’s story titled The Old Man of Lochnagar.
Return to Cac Carn Mor and take the downward path heading southeast. This follows the footsteps of Queen Victoria who once admired the spectacular 50-meter high cascades of the Falls of Glas Allt waterfall. At the shores of Loch Muick, there is a lodge called Glas-allt-Shiel, which was built for Queen Victoria in 1868. It highlights the monarch's appreciation for the beauty and tranquillity of Lochnagar.
This is the last stage of the tour. After descending the hill, turn left and continue your walk along the shores of Loch Muick. Relax and enjoy the glen's vistas. The path will take you back to the Spittal of Glenmuick where you will complete your hike.
Useful tips:
- Lochnagar is a strenuous, 19km mountain hike. Proper equipment is essential and will depend on the season and weather.
- Always check the weather, even during summer. You may miss many great views if you hike when visibility is poor.
- There is a fee for parking at the Glen Muick car park. The car park gets full quickly during the summer months, so arrive as early as possible.
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