Monadh Mòr
1,113m
Cairngorms
“Big Moor”
1,113mHeight
37.2kmRound trip
10.5–13.7hWalk time
HardDifficulty 4/5
Photo: GeographBot · CC BY-SA 2.0
Overview
About this Munro
Monadh Mòr is a 1,113m Munro in the Cairngorms region, its Gaelic name meaning “big moor”. It stands 42nd of the 282 Munros by height. The usual ascent — Monadh Mòr and Beinn Bhrotain from Linn of Dee — is a 37.2km round trip taking 10.5–13.7 hours, rated hard (4/5).
Plan your day
Routes & Navigation
There are 2 routes to the summit of Monadh Mòr, ranging from 20km.
Route preview
Monadh Mòr and Beinn Bhrotain from Linn of Dee
Hard10.5–13.7h round trip37.2km distance↑890m ascent
Bog ratingModerate
ParkingLinn of Dee
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Route preview
Beinn Bhrotain and Monadh Mòr from Linn of Dee
Hard10.5–13.7h round trip20km distance↑890m ascent
Bog ratingModerate
ParkingLinn of Dee Car Park
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Climbing Monadh Mòr
Your journey to Monadh Mòr from Linn of Dee represents one of the longest and most remote Munro expeditions in the…
Climbing Monadh Mòr
Your journey to Monadh Mòr from Linn of Dee represents one of the longest and most remote Munro expeditions in the…
Your journey to Monadh Mòr from Linn of Dee represents one of the longest and most remote Munro expeditions in the Cairngorms. The route covers a staggering 37 kilometres on the full circuit, requiring exceptional fitness and stamina. The approach to Monadh Mòr follows good estate tracks initially, making progress relatively easy through the glen. However, as you penetrate deeper into the Cairngorms plateau, paths become less defined and you'll navigate across open terrain.
The gradient is generally moderate but relentless, with the sheer distance being the main challenge. Bog levels are rated 3 out of 5, meaning you'll encounter wet ground in sections but it's not as continuously waterlogged as some routes. Budget between 10.5 and nearly 14 hours for this expedition, making it one of the longest single-day Munro walks. Monadh Mòr itself sits at 1113 metres on a vast, featureless plateau.
Best Time to Climb Monadh Mòr
Attempting Monadh Mòr requires long summer days, making June and July ideal when you have maximum daylight for this…
Best Time to Climb Monadh Mòr
Attempting Monadh Mòr requires long summer days, making June and July ideal when you have maximum daylight for this…
Attempting Monadh Mòr requires long summer days, making June and July ideal when you have maximum daylight for this marathon walk. The Cairngorms location brings somewhat drier conditions than western mountains, though weather remains unpredictable at all seasons. At 1113 metres on an exposed plateau, Monadh Mòr catches severe weather including high winds and rapidly forming cloud.
The length of the route means you must have stable weather for the entire day, with no margin for delay. Spring and early summer can bring snow patches that linger on the higher plateau. Winter transforms Monadh Mòr into an extreme mountaineering challenge requiring winter skills, bivouac equipment, or a very early alpine start. The featureless terrain becomes dangerously disorientating in poor visibility.
Autumn offers beautiful colours in the glens but shortened days that make the long distance more challenging. Only attempt Monadh Mòr with a settled forecast and long daylight hours.
Getting to Monadh Mòr
Your expedition to Monadh Mòr begins at Linn of Dee Car Park, located at the end of the public road west from Braemar.…
Getting to Monadh Mòr
Your expedition to Monadh Mòr begins at Linn of Dee Car Park, located at the end of the public road west from Braemar.…
Your expedition to Monadh Mòr begins at Linn of Dee Car Park, located at the end of the public road west from Braemar. From the village, follow the minor road through the Inverey area, continuing for several miles on a single-track road through magnificent pine forest. The car park at Linn of Dee provides ample space and marks the end of vehicle access, with a private estate road continuing westward. This is a popular starting point for walks into the remote Cairngorms.
The drive from Aberdeen takes around 90 minutes via Braemar, while from Perth you'll need roughly two hours. Facilities are limited to the car park itself, so stock up on supplies in Braemar before driving out. The minor road is generally accessible year-round but can be affected by snow and ice in winter. Arrive early, as the car park fills quickly on fine days when walkers head into the hills.
Monadh Mòr Summit
The summit of Monadh Mòr at 1113 metres sits on one of the most featureless plateaus in Scotland, a vast expanse of…
Monadh Mòr Summit
The summit of Monadh Mòr at 1113 metres sits on one of the most featureless plateaus in Scotland, a vast expanse of…
The summit of Monadh Mòr at 1113 metres sits on one of the most featureless plateaus in Scotland, a vast expanse of sub-arctic terrain that gives the 'Big Moor' its name. The cairn provides the only obvious landmark across this rolling high ground, essential for navigation in mist. Views on clear days extend across the Cairngorms plateau, with neighbouring peaks rising from the wilderness.
The summit of Monadh Mòr offers no natural shelter, leaving you fully exposed to whatever wind is blowing across this elevated moorland. The sense of remoteness is profound, with no signs of civilization visible in any direction. In good visibility, the plateau has a stark beauty, but in cloud it becomes one of Scotland's most challenging navigation environments.
The gravelly, stony ground is typical of these high Cairngorm summits, supporting only the hardiest alpine vegetation. Take time to appreciate reaching Monadh Mòr before facing the long walk back.
Wildlife on Monadh Mòr
The journey to Monadh Mòr takes you through some of Scotland's finest mountain wilderness, home to rare and iconic…
Wildlife on Monadh Mòr
The journey to Monadh Mòr takes you through some of Scotland's finest mountain wilderness, home to rare and iconic…
The journey to Monadh Mòr takes you through some of Scotland's finest mountain wilderness, home to rare and iconic species. The ancient Caledonian pine forest near Linn of Dee supports red squirrels, capercaillie, and Scottish crossbills found nowhere else in Britain. As you climb toward Monadh Mòr, red deer are frequently encountered, with large herds roaming these remote glens. The lower heather moorland hosts red grouse, while mountain hares bound across higher ground.
Golden eagles patrol these vast spaces, and you may be fortunate enough to witness one soaring overhead. The summit plateau of Monadh Mòr lies within ptarmigan territory, where these hardy grouse live year-round above 900 metres. Dotterel occasionally nest on the highest Cairngorm plateaus during summer. The vegetation transitions from heather through montane heath to sparse alpine communities of moss, lichen, and dwarf shrubs.
The Cairngorms' relative dryness supports different plant species than wetter western ranges.
Monadh Mòr Tips
Monadh Mòr demands the highest level of preparation and mountain experience. The extreme distance means you must be…
Monadh Mòr Tips
Monadh Mòr demands the highest level of preparation and mountain experience. The extreme distance means you must be…
Monadh Mòr demands the highest level of preparation and mountain experience. The extreme distance means you must be exceptionally fit and capable of navigating for 12 hours or more. Carry detailed maps covering the entire route, compass, and GPS as the featureless plateau makes navigation extremely challenging in poor visibility. Pack sufficient food and water for a full day, plus emergency supplies in case you're out longer than planned.
The remoteness of Monadh Mòr means rescue would take many hours, so you must be self-reliant. Mobile signal is non-existent for much of the route. Start at first light to ensure completion in daylight, and be prepared to turn back if weather deteriorates or progress is slower than expected. Full waterproofs, warm layers, and survival equipment are essential. Consider carrying a bothy bag or emergency shelter. Tell someone your detailed plans and expected return time.
Only attempt Monadh Mòr if you're confident in your navigation skills and physical fitness.
Keep bagging
Nearby Munros in Cairngorms
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing Monadh Mòr.
How tall is Monadh Mòr?
Monadh Mòr stands at 1,113 metres (3,652 feet), making it the 42nd tallest of all 282 Munros in Scotland.
What does Monadh Mòr mean in Gaelic?
The name Monadh Mòr translates from Scottish Gaelic as “Big Moor”.
How long does it take to climb Monadh Mòr?
Climbing Monadh Mòr typically takes between 10.5 and 13.7 hours round trip. This varies with fitness, weather, and the route chosen — there are 2 routes to the summit.
Where do I park for Monadh Mòr?
There is dedicated parking at the standard starting point for the main route up Monadh Mòr, in the Cairngorms area. The exact car park location, map pin and arrival guidance are in the free Munros app.
How difficult is Monadh Mòr to climb?
Monadh Mòr is rated Hard (difficulty 4/5). Route difficulty varies across the 2 available routes.
What is the best route up Monadh Mòr?
The most popular route up Monadh Mòr covers 20km, 10.5–13.7 hours round trip. There are 2 routes to the summit in total, ranging from Hard to Hard difficulty.
Is Monadh Mòr good for beginners?
Monadh Mòr (difficulty 4/5 at 1,113m) is best suited to experienced hillwalkers in the Cairngorms area. Expect sustained steep terrain and the need for confident navigation in poor visibility.
What region is Monadh Mòr in?
Monadh Mòr is in the Cairngorms region of Scotland. Nearby Munros include A' Bhuidheanach Bheag, A' Chailleach (Monadhliath), A' Mharconaich.