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The Sustainable Stop

Munro Profile 35: Sgòr Gaoith

Region: The Cairngorms
Height: 1,118m (3,668 ft)

Sgòr Gaoith is a wind-swept summit perched dramatically above Loch Einich, offering one of the most striking viewpoints in the Cairngorms. Its name, “peak of the wind”, is well earned, with sheer drops and panoramic vistas that feel both exposed and expansive. For campervan travellers, access is straightforward, with good parking and nearby facilities in Glen Feshie.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Glen Feshie Forestry Car Park

  • Location: Off the B970 near Achlean
  • Grid Reference: NN850998
  • Capacity: Moderate; suitable for daytime campervan access
  • Facilities: None at the trailhead; nearest services in Kincraig or Kingussie
  • Charges: Free
  • Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

  • Kingussie: Campsite with full facilities, 25-minute drive from the trailhead
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys along Glen Feshie road (check signage and seasonal restrictions)
  • Loch Insh: Alternative base with café and water access

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Glen Feshie and Coire Ruadh Circuit

  • Distance: Approximately 16 km round trip
  • Elevation Gain: Around 900 metres
  • Terrain: Forestry tracks, heather slopes, exposed summit edge
  • Time Estimate: 5 to 7 hours

Distance and elevation may vary slightly depending on summit extensions and the descent route.

Navigation Notes

  • The summit edge is steep and exposed; a compass or GPS is essential
  • Often paired with Sgòran Dubh Mòr for a fuller circuit
  • Weather can be fierce; wind protection and visibility tools are recommended

Summit Grid Ref: NN903989 — useful for GPS and mapping

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Glen Feshie car park allows daytime campervan access
  • Kingussie offers overflow options and amenities

Overnight Options

  • Kingussie Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys (check signage)
  • No overnighting permitted at Glen Feshie trailhead

Fuel and Supplies

  • Kingussie: Fuel station, shop, café
  • Nearest large supermarket: Aviemore

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Sgòr Gaoith” translates to “peak of the wind”
  • Summit features: Cairn perched above Loch Einich’s cliffs, with views across Braeriach and the Lairig Ghru
  • Known for: Dramatic drop-offs, elegant approach, and high visual reward
  • Popular with: Day walkers, photographers, and those seeking a quieter Cairngorm summit

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 35 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Sgòr Gaoith, felt the wind whip across Loch Einich, or found a reliable overnight spot nearby, 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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