Total distance – 3.8 kilometres

Ascent – 275 metres

Walking conditions – Fairly easy walking on footpaths and tracks although the boulders can be a little awkward in places during the descent. No real difficulties

Time required – Around 2 to 3 hours

Nearest town – Braemar

As of 14^th October 2014 we can proudly announce to the handful of people who currently read this blog that our five year old daughter has conquered Carn Aosda and she is therefore now a Munroist. Admittedly Carn Osada is certainly not the most prestigious of Munros and it’s a fairly easy 275 metre ascent. Indeed, she made light work of it, albeit off the back of the usual promises of Haribos and Chocolate Buttons awaiting her at the top. Confectionery wasn’t the only treat at the top of the hill. There was also a crystal clear, breath-taking view and this is something my daughter will soon realise is not a treat to be taken for granted on Scotland’s 3000+ feet hills.

Park at the Glen Shee Ski Centre on the A93. At this point you are already over 650 metres above sea level. From here, there’s a short, steep ascent that brings you up to the café. You will now see a number of tracks and paths. Do not head up the direct route to Carn Aosda (that’s the way down) but opt instead for the well-defined winding path that takes you to the lowest point of the shoulder coming down from the summit. When you turn onto the shoulder it actually becomes a very pleasant high level walk with great views and it’s not that hard to forget that you’re close to a series of ski runs. This gentle shoulder takes you onto the summit and a large cairn presents itself. To return, walk down the straight, bouldery path which takes you back to the car park, pretty much as the crow flies.

Route