Lochan Coire na Ciste

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Lochan Coire na Ciste

Boulders and scree slope Carn Dearg Beag The long ridge of Carn Mòr Dearg has two distinct but minor tops north of the main summit, this is Carn Dearg Beag, the more northerly of them with boulders and, to the right, a scree slope falling from the same top.
The ridge and gully-riven slope beyond is Aonach Mòr. — Boulders and scree slope Carn Dearg Beag Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Lochan Coire na Ciste is a small freshwater loch located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. Nestled amidst the magnificent Cairngorm Mountains, this natural feature offers breathtaking views and a tranquil environment for both locals and tourists to enjoy.

With a surface area of approximately 1.5 hectares, Lochan Coire na Ciste is relatively small in size. The loch is surrounded by lush greenery, with heather-covered hills and rugged slopes adding to its picturesque appeal. The crystal-clear waters of the loch reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a stunning mirror-like effect on calm days.

The loch is fed by nearby mountain streams and springs, ensuring a constant flow of fresh water. The water is known for its purity and clarity, making it an ideal habitat for a variety of aquatic plants and wildlife. The loch's edges are adorned with vibrant reeds and grasses, providing a habitat for various marshland species.

Lochan Coire na Ciste is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several species of waterfowl such as ducks and geese. The loch also supports a healthy population of fish, including brown trout and Arctic char, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Surrounded by the stunning Cairngorm Mountains, Lochan Coire na Ciste offers a range of recreational activities for visitors. Hiking and walking trails wind through the area, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding natural beauty. The loch itself is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and even wild swimming for the more adventurous.

Overall, Lochan Coire na Ciste is a hidden gem in Inverness-shire, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Lochan Coire na Ciste Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.801531/-5.0104722 or Grid Reference NN1671. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Boulders and scree slope Carn Dearg Beag

The long ridge of Carn Mòr Dearg has two distinct but minor tops north of the main summit, this is Carn Dearg Beag, the more northerly of them with boulders and, to the right, a scree slope falling from the same top. The ridge and gully-riven slope beyond is Aonach Mòr.

Trevor Littlewood

Stony ridge rising to summit of Carn MÃ²r Dearg

The summit of Carn Mòr Dearg viewed along the ridge from the minor top, Carn Dearg Meadhonach. The rock tower at the right side of the image is the north-east buttress of Ben Nevis which leads to its summit.

Trevor Littlewood

Carn MÃ²r Dearg Arete rising for summit of Ben Nevis

The arete is well known as the obvious route connecting the mountains Carn Mòr Dearg and Ben Nevis; it gives an easy scramble. There's a walker on the near rocks at the left side of the ridge which gives some scale to the scene. The rock tower is the north-east buttress of Ben Nevis; in the image it gives the impression that the summit of 'The Ben' will be at the sharp point of a cone; in fact the actual summit area is quite flat!

Trevor Littlewood

Walkers Traversing the Carn Mor Dearg Arete, Scottish Highlands

The Carn Mor Dearg Arete is a ridge running between the peaks of Carn Mor Dearg and Ben Nevis in the Scottish Highlands

Andrew Tryon

Footpath to the north of Ben Nevis, Scottish Highlands

This footpath is a safe route contouring around the north side of Ben Nevis, connecting the tourist route up the west face of Ben Nevis and the mountaineering hut at the base of the north face.

Andrew Tryon

Footpath on Carn Beag Dearg, Scottish Highlands

The footpath from the north face car park below ascends Carn Beag Dearg, part of the route leading towards the Carn Mor Dearg Arete and Ben Nevis.

Andrew Tryon

Carn Mor Dearg, Scottish Highlands

The summit of the munro Carn Mor Dearg, viewed from the peak of Carn Dearg Meadhonach. At 1220 m (4003 ft) Carn Mor Dearg is the ninth highest mountain in Scotland, and is located just 1 mile to the east of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

Andrew Tryon

On the Carn Mor Dearg Arete, Scottish Highlands

View facing west along the Arete, which is the ridge linking Carn Mor Dearg to Ben Nevis. The ridge is steep to the north, but always less so to the south.

Andrew Tryon