Ben Aigan is largely covered with forestry plantations but the summit area rises clear to give some of the most extensive views over Moray, from the coastal plain to the distant Cairngorms. The ascent is a straightforward hillwalk.
Bog Factor
Forest tracks and paths; slightly exposed section along edge of quarry. Final stony path to open, heathery summit.
Ben Aigan forestry car park, off A95.
None to start.
NJ333490
To reach the forestry car park, turn off the main A95 between Craigellachie and Keith by Bridge of Oldtown. The track climbs into the forest; bear left and the parking is soon reached on the left side. This was formerly a base for mountain bike routes, which are now closed. Begin the walk by continuing along the track, passing through a gate.
After a little over a kilometre the track swings right and continues gently climbing, with a view ahead towards the transmitter mast on Knock More. At a junction turn sharp left onto a wide track climbing through the trees. The track eventually levels off, and after 1.2km or so reaches a small quarry in the forest. Leave the track here and take a steep path climbing up the right edge of the quarry; it's clear to follow but care is needed by the quarry edge.
Above the quarry the path reaches a t-junction. Turn right here to continue the ascent, now on a narrow heathery path. This widens and eventually means a larger track. Turn left here, when the track forks go right; there are superb views back over into Aberdeenshire.
After another 500m another junction is reached; turn left here to begin the final pull up to the flat summit. The top of Ben Aigan is marked by an unusual trig point - rather than triangular or circular as is usual, this one is square. The views are easier to fathom, with a great sweep of the Moray coastline and Spey Bay in one direction, and the massive bulk of Ben Rinnes in the other; between them are some of the most extensive views of Moray.
It is worth detouring a few yards west for a view down to the town of Rothes. After absorbing the panorama, take the path that descends SE from the summit. When this meets a rough track across the slope above the trees, turn right but then soon left again, to pass into the trees between two sections of fencing.
Continue down through the trees until a cross-paths, then turn left on a path that cuts across the slope. This rejoins the outward route above the forest quarry - turn right to retrace your steps down the left side of the quarry with care, then continue all the way back to the start.
This website and app are run by 'Walkhighlands for All' - a not-for-profit set up to serve walkers' needs.
We rely on the generosity of our users - can you help?
