BEINN MHEADHOIN
Into the Cairngorm Wilderness!
Join us for a guided hike to Beinn Mheadhoin — a remote-feeling Cairngorm Munro renowned for its iconic granite tors.
Starting from Cairngorm Mountain, this is a superb journey into the heart of the central Cairngorms, combining high-level walking with a strong sense of space and wilderness.
This classic Cairngorm route takes in:
Beinn Mheadhoin (1,182 m) – the middle hill – a broad, lofty Munro set amid rolling high ground and dramatic granite outcrops.
Loch Avon / Loch A’an – one of Scotland’s most beautiful high mountain lochs.
A perfect choice for Munro baggers and walkers seeking a mountain day in wide-open Cairngorm scenery.
✅ Why Choose This Walk?
A classic Cairngorm Munro with a true wilderness feel.
Experience dramatic glacial sculpted scenery and vast plateau walking.
A Munro combined with some of the Cairngorms’ most iconic landmarks.
Outstanding views across the entire central Cairngorms.
Led by a qualified, experienced Mountain Leader.
Ideal introduction to longer Cairngorm mountain days.
🥾 Route Details
Total Distance: 19.5km
Total Ascent: 1,490m
Daily Duration: 8–9 hours
Terrain: You will mostly be on path, until the near the summit. It will be steep and rough in places, mainly on the ascent from/descent to Loch Avon
Grade: Level 3/4
Group size: Limited to 7 people
🏔️ Route Overview
We begin at Cairngorm Mountain, gaining height steadily as we ascend through Coire Cas. Leaving the bustle of the ski area behind, the landscape quickly opens out into the expansive scenery that defines the Cairngorms. A dramatic descent leads us down into Coire Raibert and onwards to the stunning shores of Loch Avon, hemmed in by the steep cliffs.
Heading around the loch, we reach the famous Shelter Stone (if time allows), a massive erratic boulder that has provided refuge to climbers and hillgoers for generations. We’ll then begin the steady climb away from the loch, ascending through wild, rocky terrain. We make our way past Loch Etchachan, the highest body of water of its size in the UK, before our final ascent to the summit of Beinn Mheadhoin and its huge granite tors.
We’ll likely retrace our steps on our return journey to complete a grand day out in the central Cairngorms.
🏡 Local Tips
Base yourself in Aviemore or Glenmore for excellent access to Cairngorm Mountain and the wider national park.
Enjoy post-walk food in Aviemore, visit the Reindeer Centre, or explore the beautiful Caledonian pinewoods around Loch Morlich and Glenmore Forest Park.
📅 Book Your Beinn Mheadhoin Hike
Book a scheduled event with us via the pop up, or reach out to design a perfect tailor-made experience for you.
👉 Get in touch to book a bespoke date or create a custom itinerary.
👉 Or visit our Guided Walks page to explore more Hillgoers adventures.
Additional Information
Meet Time & Location
Meet at the Cairngorm Mountain ski centre car park at 8:15am for an 8:30am start.
Please note there is a charge to park of £3 for the day
Joining Details & Kit
Joining details, participation forms and kit lists will be sent out the week before the walk. This walk is limited to 7 participants, and a good level of hill fitness is required.
Why not have a look in our shop? We can post or deliver items to you at the event. All participants receive a 15% discount on goods (except gift vouchers, sale items and books).
Please contact us for any additional information.
