Ben Gulabin rises steeply above the Spittal of Glenshee; it provides a short and straightforward hillwalk with a grand view back down the glen.
Good track at first, then eroded track and hill path.
None to start. Nearest bus is at the Spittal of Glenshee (Sat only).
Parking where track leaves A93 1.5km north of the Spittal of Glenshee.
The slopes directly above the Spittal of Glenshee are forbiddingly steep, so a much easier place to start is around 1.5km north along the A93 where a rough track branches off to the left. There is space for a couple of cars to park carefully here without blocking the gateway. Begin by heading through the gate and up the track; the grand view up the glen to The Cairnwell improves with each step.
Eventually the track curves round and crosses the Allt a' Charnaich. On the hillside to the north is the remains of a ski tow which was in use before the ski developments at the head of the glen were built; little remains of the 'Gulabin Hut' as the club ski hut was called. Continue on the main track until reaching the foot of a track which branches off left straight up Ben Gulabin - an ugly scar on the hillside.
Ascend this track; it climbs steeply and does have the one merit of directness. Eventually the gradient eases as the heathery summit plateau of Ben Gulabin is reached. By this point there is thankfully only a path underfoot; follow this main path when it turns right to head towards the summit.
The cairn stands on a small rocky outcrop and reveals a view ahead into the wild western half of the Mounth mountains - with Glas Tulaichean prominent. After enjoying the view, return across the plateau to the path junction. Before heading back down, it is worth making a short detour to visit the eastern summit which reveals an excellent view looking down Glen Shee to Mount Blair. The return walk is back the same way.
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