Creag Leacach

Creag Leacach translates from Gaelic as ‘the slabby crag’ – an evocative moniker if ever there was one! This is indeed a stony hill, rising high above the Devil’s Elbow, but don’t be put off – climbing Creag Leacach is a simple day trip starting from the Glenshee Ski Centre car park. 

Handily enough, you are already on the highest main road in Scotland so some of the hard work in reaching the top of the Munro has been done for you.

Once past the ski centre, heading up to the Grampian plateau is a pleasant and peaceful excursion.  Ascending slopes of heather and grass, you reach an open and remote landscape, a safe harbour for grouse, mountain hares and red deer.

An old wall and fencing will help you navigate up to the Munro’s rocky summit.  From here, you can appreciate fine views of The Cairnwell and the Cairngorms.  

For those with legs of steel, Creag Leacach is often climbed as one of four Munros to the east of the Cairnwell Pass: Càrn an Tuirc, Cairn of Claise, Glas Maol, and Creag Leacach. Alternatively, you can omit the first two Munros and simply tackle Glas Maol and Creag Leacach.

The stats below combine all four Munros – Càrn an Tuirc, Cairn of Claise, Glas Maol, and Creag Leacach:

Nearest Town: Braemar
Distance: 19.25km / 12 miles
Time: 6.5-7.5hours
Ascent: 891m
Starting point: Glenshee Ski Centre car park
Photo credit: Graeme Rew