Douglas Gibson Gully

Valley in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Douglas Gibson Gully

Mist hangs over the corrie Crags on Lochnagar mountain overlooking the corrie lochan of the same name. Mist covers the higher parts of the mountain, but this was soon to clear. — Mist hangs over the corrie Credit: Gordon Hatton

Douglas Gibson Gully is a picturesque valley located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, this stunning landscape offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

The valley is named after Douglas Gibson, a renowned Scottish explorer who first discovered and mapped the area in the early 19th century. It stretches for approximately 2 miles, nestled between towering mountains on either side. The gully is characterized by its rugged terrain, with steep slopes and rocky outcrops adding to its natural charm.

One of the main attractions of Douglas Gibson Gully is its diverse wildlife. The valley is home to a variety of bird species, including golden eagles, ptarmigans, and red grouse, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Visitors may also spot red deer and mountain hares, adding to the enchantment of the area.

For those seeking outdoor activities, the gully offers several hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. The paths wind through heather-covered moorland, leading to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the valley. In winter, the gully transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its pristine slopes.

Douglas Gibson Gully is also rich in history and heritage. The remains of old shepherd's huts can be found scattered throughout the valley, serving as reminders of the area's past agricultural use. Additionally, the gully is steeped in folklore, with tales of mythical creatures and ancient legends adding an air of mystery to the surroundings.

Overall, Douglas Gibson Gully is a hidden gem in Aberdeenshire, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich history. It is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Scotland's magnificent landscapes.

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Douglas Gibson Gully Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.9556/-3.237714 or Grid Reference NO2485. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Mist hangs over the corrie

Crags on Lochnagar mountain overlooking the corrie lochan of the same name. Mist covers the higher parts of the mountain, but this was soon to clear.

Gordon Hatton

Late snow, Black Spout Gully

Snow patch at the head of Black Spout Gully on a late spring day. The view is across the subsidiary top of Cuidhe Crom.

Gordon Hatton

Trig point on Cac Carn Beag

Summit of Lochnagar at 1155m. Cac Carn Beag has an interesting translation into English.

Gordon Hatton

Path up Lochnagar

Steven Brown

Footpath alongside Glas Allt towards Loch Muick

Steven Brown

Coire Boidheach in winter

During winter, a narrowing of the coire fills with deep snow, and large cornices form. In February 2023, there was less snow than usual, exposing the stream which would normally be buried under many feet of snow at this time of year

Mike Duguid

Coire Boidheach in winter

A narrowing of Coire Boidheach on the plateau catches snow, and the resulting cornices cast shadow making the coire more readily visible from distance. In summer, the terrain is boggy and unremarkable: was the original meaning of the name "beautiful corrie" conceived in summer or winter?

Mike Duguid

Coire an Daimh Mhoile in winter

Around the 1000m contour, Coire an Daimh Mhoile narrows and steepens. In summer the water tumbles down waterfalls here freely, but in winter it is buried in snow, and large cornices form (particularly on the west side).

Mike Duguid

Coire an Daimh Mhoile in winter

Looking up Coire an Daimh Mhoile in winter; at this time of year the stream is buried below snow (but can be heard running below). Crampons are advisable at this time of year, and when there is heavy snow there would be avalanche danger here.

Mike Duguid

Deer at the summit of Cac Carn Beag

A Munro defined as a mountain in Scotland with a height over 3,000 feet (914.4 m), and which is on the Scottish Mountaineering Club (SMC) official list of Munros; there is no explicit topographical prominence requirement.

Ralph Greig

Cac Carn Mor

Summit cairn on the lower of the two tops on Lochnagar.

Iain Russell

Approaching Cac Carn Beag

The highest point on Lochnagar.

Iain Russell

The Summit of Lochnagar in the Sunshine

The northernmost summit, Cac Carn Beag, on Lochnagar, Scotland, UK (1155 m, 3789 ft).

Andrew Tryon

South Slopes of Creag a' Ghlas-Uillt

The view at approximately 1km above sea level (1000 m, 3280 ft) from the south side of Creag a' Ghlas-Uillt, one of the summits on Lochnagar, Scotland. Glen Muick and Glen Clova are visible.

Andrew Tryon

Reflections of Lochnagar in Lochnagar

Reflections of the rocky buttresses that make up the north face of the mountain Lochnagar, as seen in the loch of the same name. The surface of the loch is at an elevation of 785m (2575 ft), which is high for a water body in Great Britain. The cliffs of Lochnagar rise up to a high point of 1155m (3789 ft).

Andrew Tryon

View of Lochnagar from the North

The north face of the mountain Lochnagar, seen here, comprises a ridge of rocky pinnacles and buttresses with steep gullies in between. The highest summit of Lochnagar is 1155 m (3789 ft) above sea level.

Andrew Tryon