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.
Prepared as usual, checking weather and ground conditions and packed accordingly. Drove up the night before with the intention of a early start due to the long distance. Left a bit later than I wanted. Long walk in with some scrambling before getting on the main plateau. Came across and instructor and some people practicing rope skills an had a chat with them. Reaching the munro tops was straightforward navigation wise however I still checked my timing to ensure I was on track to be back on the the main track when the light started to face. At the last munro I chatted to a couple that were up there with no ruck sacks, I had seen bags about a mile away on the climb up. I asked them if these belonged to them which they confirmed. They appeared to be tourists so I warned them to keep their bags on them at all times in case something happened and they had to wait and keep warm. Not sure if they took notice but tried my best to warn them of the dangers.
