The Cairngorms are ‘a little piece of the arctic in Scotland’ according to the SMC Munros Guide and the area contains many of the tallest peaks in the East Highlands. Ben Macdui (1309m), Cairn Gorm (1244m) and Braeriach (1296) are probably three of the better known and the whole area is full of steep corries and high plateaux. Access to the mountains is typically from Aviemore or Braemar.
From Gleann Einich, ascent via path in Coire Dondhail to 1100m, contoured for 1km and followed vague spur to Sqorr and Lochain Uaine, handrailed cliffs in misty conditions, to Cairntoul. Turned around, and handrailed to Braeriach. Descent on NW slopes. Low vis. 7.5 hours
