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Hillwalking & Backpacking
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Approaching cairn at 1141 on the Cairn Gorm plateau
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Exploring the Cairngorms can be a magical experience if you are properly equipped and prepared - physically, mentally and with the right gear - including knowing how to use it! The importance of competent navigation skills cannot be underestimated - knowing where you are is vital. Also be aware that the weather in the Cairngorms is very changeable. Within the space of 10 minutes a fine day can change to snow with a wind chill effect of minus 30 Celsius - any month of the year!
Above all enjoy the Cairngorms in safety and you will have memories that will last a lifetime!
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Route choice - it's your call
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The Cairngorms are famous as a dramatic mountain range for walking and backpacking. The ski road and car park provide a high-altitude starting point which is often preferred by walkers to give them an advantage in tackling 4000-foot peaks such as Cairn Gorm and Ben Macdui. However, there are many other long approach routes, such as Ryvoan, the Allt Mor trail, the Chalamain Gap, Lairig Ghru, Glen Einich and Glen Feshie, to name just a few.
The Ranger Service can give advice on these routes, but cannot make your choice for you. It's your hillwalk, choose a good one from the infinite permutations. Consult a good guidebook and the relevant large-scale map and you will choose well.
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Coire Cas Loop Trail
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The Coire Cas mountain trail markers have now been taken in for the winter and will be put out again post snowmelt next spring.
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The Gathering Storm..October 2005
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Ben Nevis from Cairn Gorm, 19th December 2004.
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Something to fill your rucksack..
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Small whirlwinds like this are not uncommon on the hills, it's just when there is loose snow caught up in them, and the visibility is good that you can see them. The worst effect is that they fill every unenclosed space with powder snow, including clothing, rucksacks and camera cases. They can also catch you off balance if you are not paying attention.
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Walking on the Plateau in May 2005
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