Carn a'Mhaim

Carn a’Mhaim is a long and magnificent narrow ridge walk to the east of the upper Dee valley (said to be the only real narrow-ridge walk in the Cairngorms), gazing across that great glen to the Cairn Toul massif.

Climb onto the ridge from the south, just west of upper Glen Lui, a steep beginning, and head on up rough boulders toward Ben Macdui. You can descend the steep Tailor Burn to the floor of the upper Dee/Lairig Ghru, or trudge on to tackle Ben Macdui if feeling strong.

This is demanding walking in remote mountains with uncertain weather. Come fully prepared, including to descend quickly if the weather deteriorates.

The Cairngorms: Walks, Trails and Scrambles – Cicerone. As usual, a brilliantly researched book covering 102 fantastic walks of all shapes and sizes, including numerous approaches to these mountains, although very brief on Carn a’Mhaim. And written by the at times poetic Ronald Turnbull. Find relevant books on Amazon.

See our Cairngorms page for more general and practical information and photos.

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