Cairngorms

Càrn Bhac

946 metres · 1 detailed route

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Càrn Bhac · Beinn Iutharn Mhòr

Beinn Iutharn Mhòr and Càrn Bhac, Inverey

Route overview

This exceptionally long but rewarding outing from Inverey explores the remote southern Cairngorms. Following a lengthy approach up scenic Glen Ey, the route climbs the stony dome of Càrn Bhac before crossing a high, peat-hagged plateau. A steep, scree-covered ascent leads to the elegant pebbly ridge of Beinn Iutharn Mhòr, offering a true sense of isolation and expansive mountain views.

Terrain and underfoot

Underfoot conditions vary from an excellent, flat landrover track in Glen Ey—ideal for mountain bikes—to pathless, boggy moorland and extensive peat hags between the summits. The climb up Beinn Iutharn Mhòr is particularly steep and loose, traversing unstable scree. Navigation on the high plateau requires competence in poor visibility, and the final descent back to the glen is rough and pathless in places.

Distance
33 km
Ascent
1,140 m
Typical time
9 - 11 hoursStandard moving time
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Munros
2

Getting there and parking

Driving and parking

Meikle Inverey village parking, Glen Ey

The route starts from Meikle Inverey parking, grid NO089892, beside the Glen Ey track. Keep the village road, entrance and forestry access clear.

A small gravel village car park beside the Glen Ey track. Keep the entrance, central aisle and forestry access open.

Approximately 12 to 16 cars

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)

  • M221 · p. 158
View on Amazon (paid link)

Walking the Munros · Volume 2

Cicerone

Northern Highlands and the Cairngorms

  • Guide route 8 · p. 68

Latest edition: 4th (2022). Edition of page references unconfirmed.

View on Amazon (paid link)

Peak Bagging: Munros · Volume 1

Nicola Hardy · 2025

Carn BhacGuide route 58 · p. 301

Hub 10 - Braemar

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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.