CairnGorm Mountain is the highest elevated and most popular of the ski fields in the ruggedly beautiful Cairngorms National Park. Take in magnificent views of the surrounding national park as you check out the diversity of ski runs, spanning from easy green runs to advanced areas. Take a ride to the mountain peak on Scotland’s only funicular railway at any time of the year and admire the breathtaking surrounding Scottish Highlands.
Strap on your skis or snowboard and head out onto the slopes. Explore 35 different runs, conveniently served by 12 lifts. One of these lifts is the scenic funicular train, which takes passengers up the 1,516-foot (462-vertical-metre) ascent to the Ptarmigan Top Station. Wind your way around a network of exciting trails. Try short green-graded beginner runs or tackle a challenging black-diamond piste. Join a class with an informative instructor and work on your style or get tips for the best runs of the mountain.
The mountain is renowned for its excellent backcountry terrain, much of which can be accessed via lift. If you are an experienced skier or snowboarder, explore the off-piste trails and take in beautiful views of tree-lined ridges and the surrounding mountaintops. Work on your freestyle skiing or snowboarding at the resort’s terrain park, which has a selection of jumps and ramps.
When you’re ready to take a break, head to the Ptarmigan Top Station. Enjoy a hearty lunch of Scottish fare and take in panoramic views of the magnificent Cairngorms. You’ll also find a shop, a viewing terrace and an exhibition about the mountain at the top station. Non-skiers and visitors can also visit the top station at any time of the year. Hikers and climbers can also make the journey up the mountain and catch the funicular railway down.
CairnGorm Mountain is located 9 miles (14.5 kilometres) from Aviemore, which is situated on the road that runs between Perth and Inverness. Reach the resort by car, rail or by bus. Glasgow is a 2.5-hour drive away. There are half-day and multi-day lift passes available, and discounts apply for students and seniors. The ski season runs between December and the end of April. Nearby ski resorts include the Lecht and Glenshee.
