Cairngorms

An Socach (Braemar)

944 metres · 1 detailed route

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An Socach (Braemar)

An Socach from Glen Clunie

Route overview

This straightforward out-and-back route offers an accessible ascent of An Socach from Glen Clunie. Following an easy glen track before climbing onto a broad, stony ridge, the walk leads to a spacious plateau with expansive views across the southern Cairngorms. It represents one of the gentler Munro outings in the area, perfect for a shorter day.

Terrain and underfoot

The walk begins on an excellent landrover track through Glen Baddoch, crossing a bridge and a ford. A narrower path then climbs gradually towards Socach Mòr, crossing a brief boggy section before a steeper, zig-zagging ascent onto the eastern ridge. The high crest is broad and stony, with faint paths bypassing the roughest ground, leading to the western summit. Navigation is generally simple in clear conditions.

Distance
16 km
Ascent
717 m
Typical time
4.5 - 5.5 hoursStandard moving time
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Getting there and parking

Driving and parking

Baddoch A93 roadside start

The start is opposite the Baddoch farm track, just south of its A93 junction, grid NO139832. Keep the road and farm access clear, and take care around traffic.

Before you go
The Inverey approach is a different route, not nearby overflow.
Sources checked 2 October 2026

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    On foot

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    On the road

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    Guidebook & paper maps

    The Munros

    Scottish Mountaineering Club · 4th edition (2021)

    • M227 · p. 156
    View on Amazon (paid link)

    Walking the Munros · Volume 1

    Cicerone

    Southern, Central and Western Highlands

    • Guide route 25 · p. 112

    Latest edition: 4th (2021) · reprinted 2024. Edition of page references unconfirmed.

    View on Amazon (paid link)

    Peak Bagging: Munros · Volume 1

    Nicola Hardy · 2025

    West Glen Shee MunrosGuide route 60 · p. 311

    Hub 10 - Braemar

    View on Amazon (paid link)

    The Munro Almanac

    Cameron McNeish · 2011

    The Cairnwell Hills

    • Munro description · p. 61

    Page numbers vary by edition.

    OS Explorer · 1:25,000
    • OL52Glen Shee & Braemar
    OS Landranger · 1:50,000
    • 43Braemar & Blair Atholl

    Summit locations only, not the approach or return route.

    Check sheets with Ordnance Survey

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    Mountain planning note

    Route times and descriptions are planning estimates. Recheck mountain weather, access, daylight, river levels and your own experience before setting out.