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So it was time to tackle my local Munros.. I lived in Aviemore for 6 years, and had never set foot above the Cairngorm Car Park
Shocking.. So I couldnt wait to venture into the Cairngorms!
The weather forecast was clear all day, so I thought what better way to start than with Ben Macdui and Cairngorm, a nice easy path after doing 5 munros just a couple of days previous. I also took my Cocker Spaniel Lexi, who was very excited to get out and do more Munros.
I set off from Inverness at around 8.15, reaching the Cairngorm Car park by 9 oclock, If only all Munro drives were this short!
I set off heading right, first going past the Fiacaill ridge and the great slab, what a view! I kind of wish I was going up the ridge, it looked like a lot of fun (maybe not with a dog). The paths are sturdy and well built, maybe to deal with the large summer crowds! It was very busy, I must have overtaken around 15 people getting to the top of Ben Macdui!
Anyway I carried on the path, with the Lairig Ghru and the whole Braeriach/Cairn Toul in sight
The views were magnificent!
Coming close to Ben Macdui I encountered the famous boulder field, which was actually rather easy, the rocks are nice and rounded and I was over it in no time. I think Lexi enjoyed it too
Once on the summit of Ben Macdui I was amazed at how warm it was, for the 2nd Highest Mountain in Britain it was T-Shirt weather! Amazing views all round, I spend a good half hour getting a bite to eat and admiring the sights. It was also very busy, around 20-25 people all having lunch and spoiling others photos
I havnt experienced that sort of tourist attraction Munro, I feel it takes a little bit away from it when you see people arriving with nothing else but Jeans and a T-shirt on and no bag/jacket etc.. but each to their own.
I recently read a report on here that showed the plane wreckage close to the summit on Ben Macdui, sadly I didn't know it was there at the time so missed my chance to see it, such a sad sight to see but interesting history. I will no doubt be back up to see it.
I made my way back down to the junction towards Cairngorm, then stopped to view the amazing Fiacaill Buttress.
I then made my way up to the top of Cairngorm, again very busy but beautiful views all around. Then all that was left was the walk down to the car! Probably one of the easiest days out I have had so far, but very much worth it. I cant wait to do the Braeriach Traverse Munros and all the other ones.
I think Lexi had fun too, probably one of the highest dogs in Britain
Anyway I hope you enjoyed my report, as always here is a little video I have made of the whole walk!