Loch Muick, Lochnagar & Meikle Pap loop from Spittal of Glenmuick — Cairngorms National Park
Loch Muick, Lochnagar & Meikle Pap loop from Spittal of Glenmuick — Cairngorms National Park
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Loch Muick, Lochnagar & Meikle Pap loop from Spittal of Glenmuick — Cairngorms National Park
07:29
23.9km
860m
Hiking
Embark on a difficult hiking adventure through the dramatic landscapes of Cairngorms National Park. This challenging loop covers 14.9 miles (23.9 km) and involves a significant 2818 feet (859 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking 7 hours and 28 minutes to complete. You will encounter diverse terrain, from good paths near the start to rougher, steeper sections as you ascend towards Glasallt Falls and Lochnagar. The route features exposed moorland, bouldery ground, and the impressive 160-foot (50 m) Glasallt Falls. As you climb Meikle Pap, you will be rewarded with views of Lochnagar's grand granite corrie and the dark loch below.
To begin your hike, head to the Spittal of Glenmuick, which serves as the starting point for this loop. Here, you will find practical amenities including a visitor center and toilets, making for a convenient start to your day. While on the trail, you might also come across the bothy at Gelder Shiel, which offers potential shelter if needed. Remember that this is a demanding route, so ensure you have very good fitness and sturdy footwear for the varied conditions.
This trail is notable for including Lochnagar, one of Scotland's celebrated Munro summits, famously described by Lord Byron for its wild and majestic crags. Meikle Pap, though not a Munro, offers exceptional views and is considered a grand little summit in its own right. The entire route lies within the historic Balmoral Estate, a region rich in natural beauty. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; the area is a reserve where you might spot eagles, ptarmigan, otters, mountain hares, and red squirrels.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.73 km
Loch Muick
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
7.79 km
Glasallt Falls
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
12.1 km
Cac Carn Beag (Lochnagar summit)
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
15.2 km
View of Lochnagar Corrie and Loch from Meikle Pap
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
21.8 km
Loch Muick
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
23.9 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
10.0 km
9.59 km
2.64 km
1.66 km
Surfaces
7.36 km
6.47 km
5.61 km
4.47 km
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Elevation
Highest point (1,140 m)
Lowest point (400 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 28 May
14°C
9°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 30.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
My first Munro 🤩 (that's what mountains over 3000 feet are called in Scotland, of which there are about 240). We were really lucky with the weather and the view! 🏴amidal.com
The tour today was so outstandingly beautiful. Incredible lonely expanses and still a change that surprises😊 In terms of weather, I had a bit of everything with me. Most of the time it's a very good way. Just before the summit you have to climb a bit. But everything is very doable. And at the end a lot of little Nessis was discovered (Picture 46) The last picture is from my accommodation today. So beautiful in the middle of nowhere 😊
Wonderful hike in Cairngorms with great changes in scenery and wonderful views at the top. Start at the designated parking for Loch Muick (point B). Possible in both directions.
After a chilly weekend, we were delighted to have such lovely weather today. Great opportunity for a hike up Lochnagar. The remnants of the weekend's snowfall were still visible on the northern and eastern aspects of the corrie. I love the descent past the waterfall. A great place to dip your toes. Loads of picnicers down by Loch Muick - unsurprising on such a warm bank holiday.
Wellbeing day outing with colleagues. A rare day of spectacular weather made this even more special. Mid week is a great time to visit the area, as it is extremely busy on summer weekends.
A round of Lochnagar starting at Glen Muick. I've climbed this hill by a variety of routes over many years and i keep coming back to this one: up via the Glas Allt to the summit, out-and-back to the Stuic then descending by the Clais Rathadan. Using this route you make a steep ascent past a super waterfall, have the sun behind you and stay out of the wind until right near the top - you also have a much shorter walk out at the end!