Lary to Morven Walk
Table of contents
Route Description for Lary to Morven Walk
While the Lary to Morven Walk will take you through some rugged terrain, it does not actually climb up to the top of the hill. Walkers wishing to do so will need to chart a course uphill and navigate their way to the summit. To do this, you will need water-resistant footwear to cross the streams and waterlogged, heather-covered terrain, as well as a GPS in the event that you get lost. Additionally, you should always check weather patterns and take into account that the weather here can change rapidly. Wear appropriate clothing for the conditions and bring extra layers if need be.
Although it is a bit of a rough and rugged walking route, this trail will expose you to some truly beautiful scenery that can only be found within Cairngorms National Park. Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way between Larry Hill and the Hill of Candacraig, working your way to the northeast across the rugged terrain of the moor to reach the base of Morven. Here, you can choose to climb up the steep hillside if you so wish, or simply relax at the end of the trail before heading back. Regardless of whether you are after some strenuous exercise or a more relaxed stroll through the hills, you will be sure to enjoy the lovely scenery along the Lary to Morven Walk.
Setting out from the trailhead in Lary, follow the wide track to the northeast as it heads between the heather-covered slopes of the Hill of Candacrag on your right and Larry Hill on the left. Enjoy the beautiful views of the undulating terrain that surrounds you over the next 2.3 km, where you will arrive at a fork in the path. Head right here and keep right at the next junction in 0.6 km to make your way east towards Morven.
From here, the trail will gradually begin to climb uphill through the moor and you will come to another junction in 1.3 km. Keep straight through it, as the path on your right will take you south to Peter’s Hill and away from Morven. After another 1.4 km of walking along the base of Morven on your left, you can pause for a rest at the midpoint of your adventure. Those seasoned walkers looking for a more scenic - and challenging - experience can go off-trail and chart a course of the hillside for some amazing summit views. Terrain on the climb will be rough, rugged, and very wet, so make sure that you are well-prepared to undertake it before setting out. After your brief rest along the trail or climb uphill, turn back along the trail and retrace your steps back to the trailhead having completed the Lary to Morven Walk.
Other Great Walks in Cairngorms National Park
Check out our trail guides to Ben Magdui, Loch Muick, Ben Vrackie, Loch an Eilein, and the Mount Keen Walk. Or see all of our Cairngorms walks.
Insider Hints for Lary to Morven Walk
- Weather in this area can change rapidly. Wear appropriate clothing for the conditions and bring other layers/waterproof clothing.
- Make sure to wear water-resistant footwear, as there are some streams in the area and the ground can be quite wet.
- Sheep can often be found grazing in the area, so remember to keep your dog on a lead to avoid any interactions.
- If you plan on climbing up to the summit of Morven, be sure to bring navigational aids as there is no trail.
Getting to the Lary to Morven Walk Trailhead
To reach the trailhead for the Lary to Morven Walk from Ballater, head west along Braemar Rod/A93 for 1.3mi, and turn right to continue for another 2.6mi, where you will find the starting point of the walk.Route Information
When to do:
April-October
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
Yes
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Lary to Morven Walk Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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