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The Sustainable Stop

Munro Profile 5: Sgor an Lochain Uaine

Region: The Cairngorms
Height: 1,258m (4,127 ft), Fifth-highest Munro in Scotland

Often called “The Angel’s Peak,” Sgor an Lochain Uaine is tucked between Braeriach and Cairn Toul, forming part of the dramatic western Cairngorm skyline. It’s usually climbed as part of a multi-Munro traverse, and while remote, it offers one of the most rewarding high-level routes in the country. For campervan travellers, access mirrors that of Braeriach and Cairn Toul, with a few overnight options nearby.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Sugar Bowl Car Park

  • Location: Off the Cairngorm Ski Road, near Aviemore
  • Capacity: Moderate, suitable for daytime campervan parking
  • Facilities: No toilets or water; nearest services in Aviemore
  • Charges: Free
  • Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

Note: Wild parking may be possible along the ski road, but signage and seasonal restrictions apply

Route Overview

Commonly climbed as part of a high-level traverse via Chalamain Gap and Lairig Ghru, linking Braeriach and Cairn Toul.

  • Distance: Approximately 22 km round trip
  • Elevation Gain: Around 1,200 metres
  • Terrain: Boulder fields, exposed ridges, remote plateau
  • Time Estimate: 8 to 10 hours

Navigation Notes

  • The summit is part of a high-level circuit map; compass, or GPS is essential
  • Often climbed with Braeriach and Cairn Toul
  • Weather exposure and remoteness require solid preparation

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Sugar Bowl Car Park allows daytime campervan access
  • Glenmore and Rothiemurchus sites offer secure daytime and overnight options

Overnight Options

  • Glenmore Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Rothiemurchus: Quiet pitches, forest access, walking trails
  • Wild parking possible along ski road (check local guidance)

Fuel and Supplies

  • Aviemore: Full services including fuel, supermarkets, outdoor gear shops
  • Nearest fuel stations: BP and Tesco in Aviemore

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Sgòr an Lochain Uaine” Gaelic for ‘Peak of the Little Green Lochan’, referencing the lochan beneath its cliffs
  • Often considered one of the most beautiful summits in the Cairngorms
  • Part of the Cairngorm 4000s challenge
  • Not officially named until 1997, when it was promoted from a Munro Top to a full Munro

Closing Notes

This completes the first set in our every-second-day campervan-access Munro series. If you’ve climbed Sgor an Lochain Uaine, parked nearby, or have tips for navigating the traverse, feel free to share your comments. Your insights help shape the archive and support fellow travellers.

Sources Used
These sites provide far more detailed and comprehensive overviews of the walks and Munros than I could hope to cover here:

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