Mullach Clach a' Bhlair and Sgòr Gaoith circuit

Overview

A big, wild Cairngorms day linking two Munros, this circuit climbs Sgòr Gaoith (1118 m) and Mullach Clach a’ Bhlair (1017 m) from Glen Feshie, with a committing traverse across Am Mòine Mhòr (the Great Moss). Expect huge horizons, a proper sense of remoteness, and the unforgettable cliff-edge perch above Loch Einich. It’s a long loop—about 19.4 miles total—best suited to experienced hillwalkers comfortable with exposure and navigation.

Route character

Most parties start from Glen Feshie near Achlean, ascend to Sgòr Gaoith first on good paths, then cross the high, open plateau to Mullach Clach a’ Bhlair before returning down estate tracks along the River Feshie. Others reverse it. However you go, the bealach between these tops is barely a dip—this is true plateau travel. The payoff moment is the craggy rim by Sgòr Gaoith, where the ground falls dramatically to lonely Loch Einich.

Terrain and navigation

Underfoot you’ll get a mix: solid paths and tracks lower down, fainter lines and occasionally pathless, boggy ground across Am Mòine Mhòr, and stonier, bouldery sections near Sgòr Gaoith’s rim. In mist or snow the plateau becomes featureless and serious—navigation skills are essential. Allow for detours: the River Feshie side has suffered landslides and erosion in places, and minor burns can be impassable after heavy rain.

What you’ll see

This route is about space and drama: the flat, high-altitude bogs of the Moine Mhòr, the shattered crags above Loch Einich, and wide views south over Glen Feshie to remote hills. Wildlife adds to the “far from it all” feel—keep an eye out for red grouse, ravens, mountain hares, and fox tracks. The plateau’s windswept, boggy surfaces are part of an ancient, glacially-shaped landscape.

Best time to hike

Late spring through early autumn (May–October) offers the friendliest combination of daylight, clearer paths, and generally lower water levels. Winter transforms this into a far more serious outing—snow can bury paths, winds rip across the plateau, and visibility often collapses. Pick a settled day for the cliff-edge views; you’ll likely enjoy solitude here even in good weather.

Practical tips

• This is a long day (plan on 8–11 hours depending on conditions and fitness); build in time for the traverse and detours.
• Carry map, compass, and GPS; the plateau has few landmarks.
• Dogs are fine under Scotland’s access rights, but keep them under close control, especially during lambing and ground-nesting bird season, and near estate stock.
• There’s no public transport to the trailhead; bring full mountain kit and spare layers—much of the route sits above 900 m and is fully exposed.