Càrn Etchachan

Hill, Mountain in Banffshire

Scotland

Càrn Etchachan

Cairn on the north summit of Ben Macdui Credit: Steven Brown

Càrn Etchachan is a prominent hill located in the Cairngorms National Park in Banffshire, Scotland. Standing at an impressive height of 1,115 meters (3,658 feet), it is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The hill is part of the Cairngorm mountain range, which is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Càrn Etchachan is situated in a remote and rugged area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, lochs, and other peaks.

To reach the summit of Càrn Etchachan, hikers can choose from various routes, each offering a unique experience. One common route starts from the Linn of Dee car park, taking hikers through beautiful forests and across picturesque rivers. As they ascend, the landscape transitions from lush greenery to exposed granite slopes, providing a challenging but rewarding climb.

At the summit, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Ben Macdui, the second-highest peak in the UK. The vast expanse of the Cairngorms National Park stretches out before them, showcasing its pristine beauty and untouched wilderness.

Càrn Etchachan is also notable for its ecological importance. The hill is home to various plant species, including heather and moss, as well as a diverse range of birdlife and mammals. It serves as a crucial habitat for several rare and protected species, making it an essential conservation area.

Overall, Càrn Etchachan offers a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, combined with breathtaking scenery and ecological significance. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the natural wonders of the Cairngorms National Park.

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Càrn Etchachan Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.088277/-3.6466677 or Grid Reference NJ0000. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cairn on the north summit of Ben Macdui

Steven Brown

Path up Ben Macdui

Steven Brown

A photographer on his way to Ben Macdui

Yes, it is me, aged 22, on my first significant Scottish hillwalk. Behind is Angel's Peak, in cloud. Below it, Lochan Uaine is hidden, but the outflow leading to the Lairig Ghru and Glen Dee is clear: see NN9597 : Cairn Toul and Angel's Peak for a view including the lochan. But the clothing! Warm woollen gloves in July. And a shirt, collar and tie. I think I grew a bit wiser later.

David Purchase

Mars, or the moon?

The western slope of the north top of Ben Macdui.

John Allan

"In poor conditions, do not allow the party to become split up"

Or so say all the classic hill walking books. Not that we took a lot of notice, quite clearly.

Richard Law

Path in Coire Raibeirt

Allt Coire Raibeirt

Beach on Loch Avon

Head of Loch Avon

Path towards Loch Etchachan

Steven Brown

Path near Loch Etchachan

Steven Brown

Barn on Beinn Mheadhoin

Barns in the Cairngorms are what are known as tors elsewhere.

Steven Brown

Summit area of Beinn Mheadhoin

Steven Brown

Cairngorm Mountains

Thanks to GPS, I can be sure exactly where this was taken from, but I am less certain about what it shows. The loch is Loch Avon, so Cairn Gorm mustr be hidden in the cloud. The river is the River Avon, and the conical mountain on the left will be Beinn a' Chaorainn. Taken from a motor glider.

Anne Burgess

View towards Loch Etchachan

The ground in front of the camera is very typical of the Cairngorm Plateau. Beyond Loch Etchachan which is mostly in NO 0000, and to the left of the loch is Càrn Etchacan. On the skyline is Cairngorm .

jeff collins