Munro Profile 6: Cairn Gorm

Region: The Cairngorms
Height: 1,245m (4,085 ft)

Cairn Gorm is one of the most accessible high peaks in Scotland, thanks to its proximity to the Cairngorm Ski Centre and the well-developed infrastructure around Aviemore. Though often overshadowed by its loftier neighbours, it offers panoramic views and a straightforward ascent. For campervan travellers, it’s one of the easiest Munros to approach and park near.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Cairngorm Ski Centre Car Park

Location: Near Aviemore, PH22 1RB
Grid Ref: NH989060
Capacity: Large car park with designated campervan spaces
Facilities: Toilets, café, information boards
Charges: Free parking, donations encouraged
Overnight: Not permitted in the main car park

Alternative Options

Glenmore Campsite: Full facilities, located 5 km from the trailhead
Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Park: Campervan pitches with access to forest trails
Wild parking: Possible along ski road, but check signage and seasonal restrictions

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: From Ski Centre via Windy Ridge

Distance: Approximately 11.5 km round trip
Elevation Gain: Around 750 metres, for the Windy Ridge route
Terrain: Well-defined paths, rocky upper slopes
Time Estimate: 3 to 5 hours

Navigation Notes

Summit plateau can be mist-covered; a map, compass, or GPS is recommended
Wind exposure is common; dress accordingly
Route can be extended to include Ben Macdui or the Loch Avon basin

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

Cairngorm Ski Centre 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: “An Càrn Gorm” translates to “blue cairn”
Summit features: Cairn and weather station
Historically associated with the ski industry and conservation efforts
Popular with beginners due to short approach and clear paths

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 6 in our every-second-day campervan-access series. If you’ve parked near Cairn Gorm, explored nearby routes, or have tips for overnighting in the area, 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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