Geal Charn, Monadhliath

Kingussie and Newtonmore


Summary :	Geal Charn is the westernmost of the Monadh Liath and so far from the other three Munros that it is usually ascended on its own. Its eastern corrie is attractive but it is otherwise lacking in features; however it does have a feeling of remoteness.
Terrain :	The path is indistinct and boggy on this otherwise straightforward hill.
Grade :		Distance :	12.5km/7.75 miles
Bog Factor :		Time :	5 – 6 hours
Start :	Garva Bridge	Grid ref :	NN521948
Map :	View an OS map of the route Buy Explorer 401 – Loch Laggan online	Ascent :	640m
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1. Start from the parking area just before Garva Bridge, some distance up the minor road past the Spey dam. The double-span stone bridge was built by General Wade as part of his route over the Corryairack Pass. This is a lonely piece of countryside, with vast herds of red deer; apart from the Munro-baggers heading for this summit there are few visitors. Cross the bridge and turn right up the track which leads off north from the road; it soon crosses a bridge over the Allt Coire Iain Oig. Immediately over this bridge, turn left through the dilapidated fence and follow the banks of the river upstream.

Photo ©Stanley Howe, licensed for reuse under Creative Commons Licence.

2. There is only a faint path at first but it soon becomes clearer, though it is boggy at times. Continue beside the Feith Talagain, passing but not crossing another bridge. After a couple of kilometres you will reach the confluence where the Allt Coire nan Dearcag joins the main stream. Cross the Allt Coire nan Dearcag here and head uphill beside it, soon leaving the stream and ascending the broad indistinct ridge leading up towards Geal Charn.

Photo ©Stanley Howe, licensed for reuse under Creative Commons Licence.

3. At the top of this steeper ascent the flat southwest shoulder of Geal Charn is reached. Continue northeast to reach the massive cairn on the summit. At 926 metres this is the fourth of the Monadhliath Munros; there is a vast, featureless wilderness extending to the north. The easiest descent is to return the same way. There is an alternative route, but it does involve a crossing of the Markie Burn and should only be attempted during dry weather. For this route (Grade 4) continue northeast round Geal Charn's most impressive feature, the corrie holding Lochan a'Choire. Once beyond the last of the crags a descent can be made southeast to join the Piper's burn much lower down. Cross the Markie Burn near the confluence, and follow the track down the far side to the Spey dam. To complete the circuit turn right and return to Garva Bridge along the road.

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