About This Route
The Lairig Ghru Traverse is a challenging 3-5 day backpack through Cairngorms National Park, from Linn of Dee to Aviemore via the infamous Lairig Ghru pass between Braeriach and Ben Macdui. This 35-mile classic crosses granite plateaus, boulder fields, and ancient pinewoods, ideal for circuit extensions to Angel's Peak. Wild camping in the corries follows Scottish Outdoor Access Code; avoid popular sites to protect vegetation.
Safety Considerations
High plateau exposure brings whiteout blizzards year-round; whiteouts claim lives per MCofS reports. Avalanche risk in corries; check SAIS (Scottish Avalanche Information Service). Boulder-hopping fatigues ankles; tape hotspots. Ptarmigan and reindeer herds signal altitude; altitude sickness possible over 4,000ft. River Dee crossings flood post-rain. Midges minimal at height but ticks in forests.
Essential Gear
Winter kit even summer: Black Diamond crampons, Petzl ice axe, Rab Expedition 1400 down bag, and Suunto altimeter watch. 4-season tent like Hilleberg Nallo for gales.