Lochnagar
About Lochnagar
Lochnagar is famous for its dramatic corrie and the dark lochan beneath its summit. The mountain has strong royal connections and inspired Lord Byron's poetry.
Height & Prominence of Lochnagar
Lochnagar stands at 1155 metres (3789 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 670 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Lochnagar is part of the Grampian Mountains. The OS grid reference is NO 244861, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Lochnagar 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
Lochnagar is located in Scotland, Aberdeenshire, within Cairngorms National Park. It sits in the Mounth 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 Lochnagar
Lochnagar is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 1155m, 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 Lochnagar one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Lochnagar is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 1155m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Lochnagar?
Lochnagar has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Lochnagar?
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 Lochnagar?
Lochnagar stands at 1155m (3789ft) in Scotland, Aberdeenshire. 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 Lochnagar? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
