Braeriach
About Braeriach
Braeriach is the third highest mountain in the UK and the highest point in the western Cairngorms. Its vast summit plateau is home to arctic-alpine flora and one of Scotland's few permanent snowbeds.
Height & Prominence of Braeriach
Braeriach stands at 1296 metres (4252 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 674 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Braeriach is part of the Cairngorms. The OS grid reference is NN 953999, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Braeriach carries the classifications of Munro, Marilyn. As a Munro, it is one of Scotland's 282 summits over 3,000 ft (914.4 m), as originally catalogued by Sir Hugh Munro in 1891.
Location & Nearest Towns
Braeriach is located in Scotland, Highland, within Cairngorms National Park. It sits in the Cairngorms area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Cairngorms National Park authority.
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Braeriach
Braeriach is a hard walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 1296m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Braeriach one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Braeriach is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 1296m elevation, and hard difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Braeriach?
Braeriach has a difficulty rating of Hard. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Braeriach?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Braeriach?
Braeriach stands at 1296m (4252ft) in Scotland, Highland. Classified as a Munro and Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Braeriach? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
