Cairngorm and Ben Macdui

This classic day in Glencoe takes in the dramatic Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) and the hills of the Bidean NamBian Massif.

The route is flexible: we can approach via the Lost Valley climbing Stob Coire Sgreamhach, Bidean Nam Bian and then onto Stob Coire nan Lochan before descending into the spectacular amphitheatre beneath the summit and descending via the Coire below. Alternatively we can take a route that take us directly toward Stob Coire Nan Lochan and the narrow ridge linking it to Bidean nam Bian depending on weather and group fitness. The Three Sisters and the surrounding ridges offer several summit options to choose from on the day.

Our aim is to get you into the Lost Valley and summit above or explore the amphitheatre of Stob Coire nan Lochan, and where conditions and fitness allow, continue to Bidean nam Bian and Stob Coire Sgreamhach. If time or conditions are limited we’ll prioritise the best summits for the group — otherwise the itinerary can include multiple Munros around the massif. The route and sequence will be chosen on the day to keep the party safe while making the most of the weather and views.

Expect a full mountain day on rough and varied ground: steep climbs, rocky sections, and pathless or boulder-strewn ground in places. Typical guided days in this area are long (often 7–10 hours) and require good fitness and sturdy boots. We plan timings conservatively to allow for route-finding, breaks, and changing conditions.

Distance: 12km

Elevation Gain: 1375m

Duration: 7-9 hours

Book

  • We offer two ways to join an adventure with Summit Line Expeditions:

    1. Private Guided Day
    Hire us for a day tailored to you and your group. We can take up to 8 people, with prices based on group size:

    • 1 person – £200 total

    • 2 people – £115 per person / £230 total

    • 3 people – £85 per person / £255 total

    • 4 people – £70 per person / £280 total

    • 5–8 people – £60 per person

    2. Monthly Open Group Trip
    Each month we run a set trip that anyone can book onto. This is a great option for solo adventurers or small groups happy to join others.

    • £60 per person

    • Minimum of 4 people required for the trip to run (if fewer than 4 book, we’ll reschedule or refund).

    • Pre-trip planning and kit list guidance

    • Safety briefing before we set off

    • Qualified and experienced Mountain Leader

    • Photos from the day to remember your trip

    Please note: You’ll need to arrange your own accommodation, lunch, personal kit, and insurance

  • The weather in the Scottish mountains can change quickly, with rain, wind, and even freezing temperatures possible at any time of year. To stay safe and comfortable, please ensure you bring the following:

    To wear:

    • Thermal base layer top – polyester or wool (avoid cotton)

    • Warm mid layer

    • Walking trousers (no cotton trousers eg. jeans)

    • Spare mid- layer or synthetic insulating layer

    • Waterproof jacket and trousers

    • Warm hat and gloves (spare gloves recommended)

    • Skipped hat / sun hat

    • Walking boots with ankle support

    Other equipment:

    • Rucksack (around 25-30 litres)

    • Lunch, snacks and spare food

    • At least 1 litre of water or a flask

    • Whistle

    • Walking poles (recommended but not essential)

    • Sunglasses and sun cream

    • Mobile phone in a waterproof case(or sandwich bag)

    • Personal first aid kit (plasters, blister kit, and any medication you normally carry, e.g. inhaler)

A hiker with a backpack and walking stick climbing a grassy slope near a mountain lake with surrounding peaks and a blue sky with scattered clouds.