This rewarding circuit from Glen Muick combines the dramatic, cliff-ringed setting of Dubh Loch with the stony summit of Broad Cairn. Following a scenic approach past Glas-allt-Shiel, the route climbs into a wild glacial trough before ascending onto the high plateau. A high-level return above Loch Muick offers superb, expansive views throughout the descent.
Terrain and underfoot
The walk begins on well-maintained estate tracks and clear paths. Beyond Dubh Loch, the terrain becomes rougher, boggier, and less defined as it climbs into the upper coire. The crossing of the Stulan Burn can become impassable in spate. The high plateau features pathless sections, while the descent from Broad Cairn requires navigating a field of large, awkward granite boulders before joining a firm vehicle track.
Lochnagar · Càrn a' Choire Bhòidheach · Càrn an t-Sagairt Mòr · Cairn Bannoch · Broad Cairn
Lochnagar, Càrn a' Choire Bhòidheach, Càrn an t-Sagairt Mòr, Cairn Bannoch and Broad Cairn
Distance
29.2 km
Ascent
1,285 m
Typical time
8 - 10 hours
Munros
5
Route overview
This classic, high-altitude circuit traverses the vast plateau of the White Mounth, taking in five Munros including the iconic Lochnagar. Starting from Glen Muick, the route offers a grand tour of expansive Cairngorms tundra, dramatic corrie cliffs, and remote loch views. It is a long but rewarding day out across high-level terrain for self-sufficient hillwalkers.
Terrain and underfoot
Underfoot conditions vary from well-constructed estate tracks and stone-pitched paths to rough, boulder-strewn slopes and pathless, stony plateau. The ascent of Lochnagar via the Ladder involves a steep climb through boulders, while the descent from Broad Cairn crosses a significant boulder field. Navigation on the high, featureless plateau requires competence with map and compass, particularly in poor visibility.
Stay close to the hill
Turn Broad Cairn into part of a Highland break
Browse handpicked Scottish cottages ranked with cached road times to Munro route starts. Signed-in walkers can prioritise cottages by the hills still missing from their round.
Route times and descriptions are planning estimates. Recheck mountain weather, access, daylight, river levels and your own experience before setting out.