Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries
By Tiri Grigg
Scotland, UK
Tiri Jessie Grigg is a 27-year-old yoga teacher and entrepreneur, currently living in London but raised in the Highlands of Scotland.
Route
If you’re coming from Inverness or from across the Dava Way, you’ll pass Loch Morlich which I would highly recommend stopping at. Drive another 10 minutes up the mountain and the trail starts and finishes at the same point: Cairngorm Ski Resort Car Park. Check out this link for live webcams that show the weather at the top of the mountain.
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2-6 hours. The trail is out and back, do depends how far you want to go.
Be aware that one section is pathless, the route is very exposed, and it sometimes runs close to the edges of cliffs.
Gloves and layers are a must. At the trailhead you can be easily fooled by the comfortable temperature but as the trail starts to climb, some chilly winds can come in from the snowy corries even in the Summer. In the Winter and Spring months when there is snow on the trail, gators or waterproof trousers always come in handy.
Hiking Key
The Look
These are the most comfortable boots I've ever hiked in, fleece lined yet extremely lightweight and waterproof.
MOAB THERMO MID
A lovely layer, flattering fit and snuggly warm.
MHC Sweater
A great option for the warmer months when GoreTex will only make you hotter, and your feet need to breathe.
SIREN 4
Field Notes:
I've been coming to the Cairngorm National park for as long as I can remember. It's where I first learned to hike, ski, cycle and climb so it holds a very special place in my heart. Every time I leave the city and pass the parks' threshold I feel a sense of calmness, along with a little thrill of excitement knowing that I'm about to embark on a new adventure. The Cairngorm National park has everything: pristine lochs with sandy beaches, sweet smelling pine forests, and everything from gentle hills to challenging mountains. The locals are unfailingly kind and helpful, most of the people you pass on the trail greet you with cheery wave and some pointers for what's to come. From the moment I set off along the trail, I can feel my mind start to slow down. The further I hike, the more present I become.
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Good To Know
There are public toilets and the Cairngorm Cafe at the trailhead but it’s always best to check the opening times online before visiting. Also, try and stop off at the Barn at Rothiemurchus for a brownie, you can thank me later!
When you’re pushing your body up a hill, your awareness moves to the breath, your body and the scenery around you. The chatter of the mind slows right down.
When To Visit
I always love this trail in Spring/Summer when there’s still a little snow. In late March, which is when I did this hike, the snow has usually melted enough so that the path is clear. Be sure to get up early and stop off at Loch Morlich on the way to the trailhead. On still mornings the loch become a glorious mirror and reflects the whole mountain range perfectly.
Q&A:
Why do you love hiking?
I find the mountains simultaneously challenging and calming. When you’re pushing your body up a hill, your awareness moves to the breath, your body and the scenery around you. The chatter of the mind slows right down.
What do you love about doing yoga in nature?
Usually when we practice yoga, it’s in a rectangular studio, on a rubbery rectangular mat. Practicing yoga on the bare earth or a thin outdoor mat, like the Merrell one, can expand your practice and allow your body’s energy field to connect with the energy field of the earth. This grounding effect helps reduce inflammation in the body and lets us connect with our beautiful planet.
What's special about hiking in Scotland?
I love how wild and unpredictable hiking in Scotland can be - especially the weather! Being out in the elements is always exciting and how so much of the land is still undiscovered.
What the one non-safety-essential always in your bag?
Summer time: midge repellent. Winter time: nip of good single malt whisky for the summit. Always: lip balm!
What words of encouragement would you give to someone thinking about getting into hiking?
Start off small. Prepare well. Take time to meditate.
HIKING TIPS
- Be safe and plan your route ahead
- Be weather wise, check the forecast
- Take the correct clothing and provisions
- Check if dogs/ camping/ BBQs etc are allowed
- Take your litter with you
- Leave gates as you find them
- Have fun!