Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX follows the standard route from Spittal of Glenmuick to Lochnagar and returns the same way. It covers 18.6 km with about 923 m of ascent, so allow 6½ to 8½ hours. The long approach is on good tracks, but the climb to the corrie rim and the high plateau are rough, exposed and serious in winter.
Leave the visitor facilities at Spittal and follow the estate track south-west towards Allt-na-giubhsaich. Cross the bridge and continue on the signed mountain route as it climbs into open country. The path rises through Clais Rathadan towards the bealach beside Meikle Pap, where Lochnagar's great northern corrie suddenly comes into view. Turn onto the rim and follow the rocky plateau path past Cac Carn Mòr to Cac Carn Beag, the main 1,155 m summit.
Return by the same corrie-rim and Spittal route. This GPX does not make the longer circuit over Càrn a' Choire Bhoidheach or descend by Glas-allt-Shiel. The cliffs of the northern corrie are severe and cornices form in winter, so stay well back from the edge. In cloud, cairns and paths can be hidden across the plateau; carry a map and compass, and do not rely on following other walkers.
The mountain is best known for its great northern corrie, but the plateau above it demands just as much respect.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start at the visitor car park and check estate notices. Parking charges and seasonal access arrangements may apply.
Follow the broad track towards Allt-na-giubhsaich, keeping to signed mountain access. The estate buildings are a useful landmark for the same return route.
Cross the burn and take the Lochnagar path. Note the junction carefully for the return.
Climb the roughening path through open hillside. The gradient increases and shelter disappears, so check clothing and water before the corrie rim.
Reach the col beside Meikle Pap and turn towards the corrie rim. Keep well back from the cliffs.
Cross the stony plateau past the subsidiary top and shelter. In cloud, follow a bearing rather than cairns alone.
Reach Lochnagar's main summit at 1,155 m. Do not continue onto the longer plateau circuit.
Retrace the corrie rim, Clais Rathadan and estate tracks to the visitor car park. In cloud, make sure you leave the plateau by the Meikle Pap route rather than drifting south.
Essential Tips
Lochnagar's northern cliffs are sheer, and winter cornices extend beyond solid ground. Give the edge a very wide berth.
Cloud, snow and wind can hide paths and cairns. Carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
Glas-allt-Shiel and Càrn a' Choire Bhoidheach belong to longer circuits. This GPX returns the way it came.
The estate tracks still take several hours in total. Carry a head torch and keep food and energy for the walk out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Lochnagar from Spittal of Glenmuick?
Allow 6½ to 8½ hours for the full route. It's 18.7 km with 779 m of ascent, and the long approach on estate tracks takes several hours even before you start the steep climb.
Is Lochnagar dangerous in winter?
Yes, it's a serious winter mountain. The northern corrie has sheer cliffs with cornices that extend beyond solid ground, and the high plateau is exposed with paths and cairns easily hidden by cloud and snow.
Where do I start the Lochnagar walk?
Start at the Spittal of Glenmuick visitor car park. Check estate notices when you arrive, as parking charges and seasonal access arrangements may apply.