Mount Cairn Toul

Cairn Toul is a mountain located in Cairngorms National Park in Scotland. Mount Cairn Toul is the fifth highest mountain in Scotland and stands at a height of 1,291 meters (4,236 feet). Cairn Toul is part of the Cairn Gorms range and is known for its steep cliffs, rocky terrain, and stunning views.

Cairn Toul is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. There are several routes to the summit, with varying degrees of difficulty. One of the most popular routes is via the Lairig Ghru, a narrow and steep pass that runs through the heart of the Cairngorms.

The summit of Mount Cairn Toul offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the valleys below. On a clear day, you can see as far as the coast and the Moray Firth. Cairn Toul is also home to several small lochs (lakes) that offer beautiful reflections of the mountain.

Cairn Toul is located in a remote area, and reaching the mountain requires a fair bit of planning and preparation. Hikers and mountaineers are advised to check the weather forecast and carry appropriate gear and supplies for their journey. The terrain on Cairn Toul can be steep and rocky, and hikers should be experienced and in good physical condition.

Mount Cairn Toul is a challenging but rewarding mountain to climb, offering breathtaking views and a true wilderness experience in the heart of Scotland’s beautiful Cairngorms National Park.

Where does the name Mount Cairn Toul come from? What does it mean?

The name “Cairn Toul” is derived from the Scottish Gaelic language. “Cairn” means “pile of stones” or “mound of rocks” and “Toul” is thought to come from “toil” which means “wet or soggy ground” in Scottish Gaelic. Therefore, “Cairn Toul” roughly translates to “pile of stones on wet ground”.

The name is thought to refer to the cairn or pile of stones that marks the summit of the mountain and the boggy ground that surrounds it. Cairns have traditionally been used as waymarkers in the Scottish Highlands, and many mountains have cairns marking their summits.

In addition to its Gaelic name, Cairn Toul has also been known by other names throughout history. The mountain was first recorded by the Ordnance Survey in the 19th century, and it was then called “Carn Toul”. Later, it became known as “Cairntoul”, before the current spelling of “Cairn Toul” was officially adopted in the 20th century.

How to get to Cairn Toul ?

1. By car: If you have access to a car, you can drive to Cairngorms National Park using the A9, which runs from Perth to Inverness. From the A9, you can take the A938 or the A939 to reach the park. There are several car parks located throughout the park, and many of the main attractions are easily accessible by car.
2. By train: There are train stations located in Aviemore and Pitlochry, which are both close to Cairngorms National Park. From Aviemore, you can take a local bus or taxi to the park, and from Pitlochry, you can take a train or bus to Aviemore or other nearby towns.
3. By bus: There are several bus services that run to and from Cairngorms National Park, with routes connecting the park to major towns and cities across Scotland. Bus services are operated by companies such as Stagecoach and Citylink, and timetables can be found online.
4. By air: The nearest airports to Cairngorms National Park are Inverness Airport and Aberdeen Airport. From there, you can hire a car, take a taxi or bus, or use the train services to reach the park.

Once you arrive at Cairngorms National Park, there are many ways to explore the park, including hiking, cycling, skiing, and wildlife watching. It is important to plan your trip in advance and check the weather forecast, as conditions in the Scottish Highlands can be unpredictable.

You can see Mount Cairn Toul on Google Maps

Information on climbing Cairn Toul mountain

Mount Cairn Toul is a mountain located in the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland, and is considered a climbing route for experienced climbers. Here are some details about climbing Cairn Toul:

1. Route: The most popular route to climb Cairn Toul starts from the Linn of Dee car park and follows the Lairig Ghru pass. From here, you can reach the summit of the mountain, which is mostly covered in rocks and boulders. The climb takes approximately 7-8 hours.
2. Difficulty: Climbing Cairn Toul requires a challenging climbing experience and should only be attempted by experienced climbers. Along the climbing route, you will encounter steep and rocky terrain with boulders and sharp ridges.
3. Permits: Cairn Toul is a natural conservation area and you may need permits before climbing. You can find information on permits on the National Park’s official website.
4. Equipment: It is important to have appropriate climbing equipment for climbing Cairn Toul. This equipment includes climbing boots, climbing poles, suitable clothing, ropes, helmets, and other necessary climbing gear.
5. Safety: Climbing Cairn Toul requires a high level of fitness and mountaineering skills. It is important to be aware of the weather forecast and avalanche risks before attempting the climb. Additionally, it is recommended to climb with an experienced guide and in a group for added safety.

Cairn Toul is a mountain located in the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland, and it offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some things you can do in Mount Cairn Toul :

1. Climbing: Mount Cairn Toul is a popular climbing destination for experienced mountaineers due to its challenging terrain and spectacular views. Climbing Cairn Toul requires proper equipment and skills, so it is important to be prepared before attempting the climb.
2. Hiking: Mount Cairn Toul is also a great destination for hikers who want to explore the scenic trails in the Cairngorms National Park. There are several hiking routes to the summit of Cairn Toul, ranging in difficulty from moderate to strenuous.
3. Wildlife watching: Moıunt Cairn Toul is located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife such as red deer, golden eagles, and ospreys. Wildlife watching is a popular activity in the park, and visitors can spot wildlife on guided tours or on their own.
4. Skiing: During the winter months, Mount Cairn Toul is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The nearby Cairngorm Mountain resort offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels, as well as ski and snowboard rentals.
5. Photography:Mount Cairn Toul offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular destination for photographers. The mountain’s rugged terrain and scenic vistas provide ample opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography.