Mount Keen from Glen Esk

This out-and-back starts at Invermark car park and climbs from Glen Esk to Mount Keen’s 939 m summit, returning by the same route. Allow 11 miles (17.5 km), about 681 m of ascent and roughly 5–6 hours. It is the shortest approach to the top, but it remains a full hill day: the glen track gives way to a steep, exposed climb onto open moor and a rocky summit cone.

Cross the bridge from the car park, pass the church and follow the signed right turn for Mount Keen and Queen’s Well. Invermark Castle can be glimpsed through trees beside the early track. Continue up Glen Mark with the Water of Mark nearby. Red deer are sometimes seen here, especially during the October rut, though sightings are never guaranteed.

A short branch leads to Queen’s Well, a granite-arched shelter over a spring. Queen Victoria is said to have stopped at this spot during a pony trek through the Angus glens. Return to the main track to continue uphill.

Pass Invermark Cottage and cross Easter Burn; after heavy rain the crossing can be more difficult. An iron grid crosses Ladder Burn before the rough track climbs into Ladder Glen. Steep zigzags lift you onto open moor, with Glen Esk spreading out behind. At the upper junction, take the constructed path on the right. The left line follows the old Mounth Road. The final approach is rocky and bouldery, so take care with footing, especially in poor visibility.

At 939 m, Mount Keen is the easternmost Munro. The summit trig point stands above the broad Mounth plateau, with a wide sweep of hills and Lochnagar to the west. Give the top time if conditions allow, then retrace your steps to Invermark; the same long descent returns through Ladder Glen and past Queen’s Well.

The upper mountain is very exposed, and wind or low cloud can make the route feel markedly harsher than the sheltered glen. The track and hillpath become rough and boggy in places. Check the forecast, carry suitable hill gear and navigation, and be prepared to turn back if visibility or conditions deteriorate. Easter Burn can also be harder to cross after heavy rain.

Dogs may accompany walkers under Scotland’s responsible access rules. Keep them close around livestock and use a short lead near ground-nesting birds during the breeding season. Deer stalking takes place on estate ground from late August to 15 February; published route guidance says the main path from Invermark remains open, but check current estate notices and follow any instructions.