Mona Gowan, near Strathdon

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Mona Gowan is a little known Graham, lying west along an open moorland ridge from the better known Corbett, Morven. The ascent given here from the north makes a very straightforward hillwalk, making use of a landrover track. Alternative descent routes are suggested which include rougher, pathless sections.

Terrain

Landrover track throughout ascent, through woodland and then open moorland hills.

Public Transport

None to start.

Start

Minor road near Culfork, Strathdon. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

Hillwalking in Winter

Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Essentials page for basic information on the skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 11.5km / 7.25 miles
Time (summer conditions): 3.5 - 4 hours
Ascent: 421m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NJ333102

Summits Climbed

Graham: Mona Gowan

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

The route begins from the minor road which branches off the A944 around 3km west of Strathdon village. After crossing the bridge over the Don, a suitable responsible parking space must be found; there is often space on the north side of the road, opposite the track heading to Culfork. Begin the walk by continuing east along the tarmac, ignoring the road forking off right, bearing left past the house at Torranbuie instead. After passing the house the road bends sharp left; keep straight on here on a good track continuing up the hill ahead.

Stage 2

Keep on the main track as it climbs across the flanks of Gallows Hill and winds to and fro, ignoring the lesser branches off on either side. Eventually a gate is reached; pass through this to follow the track out onto more open ground.

Stage 3

There are beautiful views back over Strathdon as height is gained. At one point the track swings left near a very uninviting metal shelter. Continue following it; many of the areas of trees shown on OS maps have been felled.

Stage 4

The track gains height in zig-zags on the steeper sections, and eventually the summit cairn comes into view. It's still further than it appears though - it's actually a huge cairn. On the plateau the track forks; the right branch leads towards the cairn.

Stage 5

The huge cairn was built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. It offers extensive views over the rolling hills of this part of the Cairngorms National Park.

Stage 6

The simple return route is back the same way. For those looking for a tougher walk, it is possible to head east down the ridge, crossing the rocky dip of the Slacks of Glencarvie, and across extensive pathless moors to reach the Corbett, Morven - though those looking to combine the two hills might be better advised to start from the A939 by Glenfenzie to avoid a long retracing of steps.

Stage 7

Another option is to instead head west, crossing a peaty bealach to reach Cairnagour Hill before descending its north ridge, eventually making use of tracks once more. Do not attempt to descent north onto the tracks shown on OS maps from Mullachdubh - the next ridge to the east - as the passage through the forestry is greatly impeded by fallen trees.

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