Carn an Tuirc, Carn of Claise, Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop — Cairngorms National Park
Carn an Tuirc, Carn of Claise, Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop — Cairngorms National Park
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Carn an Tuirc, Carn of Claise, Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop — Cairngorms National Park
06:55
21.1km
950m
Hiking
Embark on a challenging 13.1 miles (21.1 km) hike through the Cairngorms National Park, gaining 3110 feet (948 metres) in elevation. This difficult route, estimated to take 6 hours and 55 minutes, offers expansive panoramic views across the rugged Scottish landscape. From the summit of Carn an Tuirc, you can gaze upon extensive vistas to the north-west, while Tolmount provides clear sightlines down to Glen Callater and across to Coire Loch Kander, showcasing the wild beauty of the highlands.
Planning your visit requires a good level of fitness due to the route's length and significant ascent. Be prepared for varied terrain, which includes boggy sections, boulder fields, and peat hags. Navigation on the high moorland plateau can be particularly tricky, especially if visibility is poor, so ensure you have proficient navigation skills before setting out on this demanding adventure.
This loop is renowned for allowing you to bag four Munros: Carn an Tuirc, Cairn of Claise, Tolmount, and Tom Buidhe. These prominent peaks make the trail a significant achievement for any hiker looking to conquer multiple Scottish mountains in a single outing. The experience offers a deep immersion into the unique natural environment of the Cairngorms, a region celebrated for its vast, untamed wilderness.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
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Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.54 km
Monega Waterfalls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
3.64 km
Summit of Carn an Tuirc
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
6.11 km
Cairn of Claise summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
10.3 km
Tolmount
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
11.9 km
Tom Buidhe Summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
21.1 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.4 km
5.54 km
203 m
Surfaces
10.8 km
9.37 km
739 m
203 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,050 m)
Lowest point (490 m)
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Weather
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Sunday 31 May
13°C
7°C
92 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Carn an Tuirc, Carn of Claise, Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop start?
The loop typically starts near the Spittal of Glenshee area. The beginning of the walk features an old arched bridge, marking the initial point of the journey into the hills.
Is there parking available for the trailhead?
Yes, parking is generally available in the Spittal of Glenshee area, which serves as a common starting point for hikes in this part of the Cairngorms.
How difficult is this loop hike?
This is considered a difficult hike, requiring very good fitness levels. It involves significant elevation gain and can take approximately 7 to 8 hours to complete. Komoot rates it as corresponding to SAC 2-3 difficulty, indicating a need for sure-footedness and good physical condition.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The terrain is varied. You'll find accessible paths, but also unpaved, natural, or gravel sections. Be prepared for boggy areas, especially after rain. The ascent up Carn an Tuirc includes a boulder field, and you may encounter peat hags when traversing towards Tolmount. The final descent off the Sron na Gaoithe ridge involves steep, rough grass.
What are the main highlights or viewpoints along the route?
This loop offers excellent panoramic views and the chance to bag four Munros. Key highlights include the Monega Waterfalls, the Summit of Carn an Tuirc with extensive north-west views, Cairn of Claise summit, Tolmount offering views down to Glen Callater, and Tom Buidhe Summit. You'll also see the impressive cliffs of Glas Maol from Druim Mor.
Which Munros can I bag on this loop?
This loop is famous for allowing hikers to 'bag' four Munros (Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet): Carn an Tuirc (1,019 m), Cairn of Claise (1,064 m), Tolmount (958 m), and Tom Buidhe (957 m).
How challenging is navigation on this route?
Navigation on the high moorland plateau can be difficult, particularly in poor visibility. Proficient navigation skills, including map and compass or a reliable GPS device, are essential due to the exposed nature of the terrain.
What is the best time of year to hike this loop?
The best time to hike is typically during late spring, summer, and early autumn when weather conditions are generally more stable and daylight hours are longer. However, even in summer, conditions can change rapidly in the Cairngorms, so always be prepared for all types of weather.
Is the Carn an Tuirc, Carn of Claise, Tolmount & Tom Buidhe loop dog-friendly?
While dogs are generally welcome in the Cairngorms National Park, it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially during lambing season (spring) and ground-nesting bird season (spring/summer). Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and be mindful of livestock and wildlife.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this hike?
No, you do not typically need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to hike this route within the Cairngorms National Park. Access to the Scottish hills is generally free under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Are there any facilities like cafes or pubs near the trailhead?
The Spittal of Glenshee area, where the trail typically starts, may offer limited facilities such as accommodation, cafes, or pubs, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to check availability in advance.