Royal Deeside : 10 Harder Walks

Royal Deeside contains many of Scotland's highest mountains and scores of other challenges to the more serious walker. Here is some of Britain's most dramatic and beautiful scenery waiting to be explored. But, unlike wonderful places in England, there is space and a sense of having the world to oneself. Most of the walks described here are within the Cairngorms National Park

On the previous page we presented a sample of easier walks. here we provide a sample of more difficult walks. The list is only a small sample of what's available as will be evident from reference to any good book on hill-walking in Scotland. Those wishing to become acquainted with walking in Royal Deeside might like to consider taking part in the Ballater Royal Deeside Walking Festival.

Walking in the Scottish hills can be dangerous as well as rewarding. We urge you to wear correct equipment and follow the proper procedures.

Grading : Grade 2 medium difficulty . Grade 3 Hard

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Dalmochie Lumberjack's Trail

11. Clachnaben 1900’
A short hill walk to an interesting summit, ideal introduction to the hills for more serious walkers. Start Cairn O’ Mount Road, south of Banchory,
Grade 2, Distance 6 miles, Ascent 1400’ Time 3 hours

12. Peter Hill 2023’
A short hill walk, good introduction to the hills for low level walkers Start Feughside approx 6 miles SW of Banchory, SE of Aboyne
Grade 2, Distance 4.5 miles, Ascent 1500’ Time 2.5 hours

13. The Fungle and Fir Mounth
Longer walks crossing the Mounth into Glen Esk. However, suitable for shorter walks returning as desired. (Aboyne – Feughside – Glen Esk; Dinnet – Glen Tanar – Glen Esk) Crossing to Glen Esk involves ascents of over 1500’ and a full day should be allowed for a one-way trip.

14. Mount Keen 3077’
A long haul to the most easterly Munro. Start Glen Tanar ( Note : can return via Ballater)
Grade 3 Distance 18 miles, Ascent 2400’, Time 9 hours

15. Morven 2862’
A medium length hill expedition with good views in most directions. Start Ballater (Tarland offers an alternative start)
Grade 2 Distance 12 miles Ascent 2250’, Time 6 hours

16. Lochnagar 3789’
A full hill expedition requiring proper equipment. Mainly on well defined tracks and of no great difficulty if conditions good. Start Loch Muick car park
Grade 3 Distance 11 miles Ascent 2500’, 7 hours

17. Morrone 2819’
A steady but easy climb giving fine views across Braemar and to both the Cairngorms in the west and Glen Clunie in the South. Start Braemar
Grade 2, Distance 5 miles, Ascent 1700’, 3 hours

18. The Cairnwell 3059’ and Carn Aosda 3003’
Two Munros by Glenshee Ski Centre with short, steep climbs. Start Ski Centre car park.
Grade 2, Distance 3.5 miles, Ascent 1250’, Time 2.5 hours

19. Glen Tilt to Blair Atholl
A long, demanding cross-country expedition into Perthshire. Experienced walkers only. Start Linn of Dee
Grade 3 Distance 22 miles, Ascent 500’, 11 hours

20. Ben Macdui 4300’
A serious expedition to the top of the second highest mountain in the UK. Only for the expert walker. Start at Derry Gate
Grade 3, Distance 18 miles, ascent 2100’, Time 10 hours

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Introduction	Cairngorms National Park	Glenshee Ski Centre	Golf in Royal Deeside	Ballater Boules
Walking in Royal Deeside	History with Boots On	Walking near Ballater	Dalmochie Lumberjack's Trail	Indoor Bowling
	Munros near Braemar	Aboyne Rugby	Photography in Royal Deeside

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Ballater (RD) Ltd, a charitable company limited by Guarantee.