Cairngorms

Creag Leacach

987 metres · 2 detailed routes

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Càrn an Tuirc · Cairn of Claise · Glas Maol · Creag Leacach

Glas Maol Munros circuit, Cairnwell Pass

Route overview

This circular route from the Cairnwell Pass collects four Munros on the high, rolling plateau east of Glenshee. Starting high from the A93, the walk traverses the expansive, stony domes of Càrn an Tuirc and Cairn of Claise before crossing to the prominent peak of Glas Maol and the stony ridge of Creag Leacach, returning via the Glenshee ski area.

Terrain and underfoot

Underfoot terrain is a mix of boggy paths on the lower approaches, broad and featureless grassy or stony plateaus, and a more defined, rocky ridge leading to Creag Leacach. Navigation can be highly challenging in poor visibility across the expansive, flat summits. The return contours steep slopes on a narrow path before descending gravel vehicle tracks through the ski infrastructure and finishing with a walk along the A93.

Distance
19.7 km
Ascent
983 m
Typical time
6 - 7 hoursStandard moving time
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Munros
4

Getting there and parking

Driving and parking

A93 eastern layby north of Glenshee, Glas Maol

The route starts from the layby about 2 km north of the ski centre, grid NO147799. This is separate from the ski-centre car park.

A gravel parking area off the A93, separate from the ski centre. Keep the onward track and river approach clear.

Approximately 8 to 11 cars

Sources checked 2 October 2026

Glas Maol · Creag Leacach

Monega Hill and Glas Maol round from Glen Isla

Route overview

This circuit explores the eastern Cairngorms, traversing two Munros and a Corbett from the secluded Glen Isla. The route offers a varied day out, combining glen tracks with open moorland and high plateau walking. Enjoy expansive views across the surrounding hills and into the wider Cairngorms National Park from the summits. It's a rewarding outing for hillwalkers seeking a quieter approach to these popular peaks.

Terrain and underfoot

The initial ascent follows a track, transitioning to a rough grassy path up Monega Hill with some steep sections. Higher ground involves good paths, becoming stony on Creag Leacach's ridge. Navigation across the plateau is generally straightforward, often aided by a county boundary wall. Later sections include boggy peat hags on the ascent to Black Hill and a final steep climb to Monamenach, followed by a track descent.

Distance
20.8 km
Ascent
1,124 m
Typical time
6.5 - 8 hoursStandard moving time
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Munros
2

Getting there and parking

Driving and parking

Auchavan road end, Monega Pass circuit

Parking is very limited on the right verge beyond the bridge at Auchavan, grid NO192698. Follow the signs and keep the road clear.

Before you go
Keep the turning area clear for gritters and the school minibus. It is not overflow parking.
Sources checked 2 October 2026

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    On foot

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    Guidebook & paper maps

    The Munros

    Scottish Mountaineering Club · 4th edition (2021)

    • M159 · p. 165
    View on Amazon (paid link)

    Walking the Munros · Volume 1

    Cicerone

    Southern, Central and Western Highlands

    • Guide route 23 · p. 105

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

    View on Amazon (paid link)

    Peak Bagging: Munros · Volume 1

    Nicola Hardy · 2025

    East Glen Shee MunrosGuide route 61 · p. 315

    Hub 10 - Braemar

    View on Amazon (paid link)

    The Munro Almanac

    Cameron McNeish · 2011

    Glenshee and Lochnagar Hills

    • Munro description · p. 64

    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.