Lairig an Laoigh — Nethy Bridge to Braemar via the Cattle Pass of the Cairngorms
The Cairngorms' forgotten drovers' pass.
While the Lairig Ghru gets the glory, the Lairig an Laoigh — the Pass of the Calves — has been moving cattle from Speyside to Deeside since before anyone was writing it down. The track runs south from Nethy Bridge through Abernethy Forest, past the ruins of Bynack Stable, and up into the open bowl below Bynack More before dropping into the Derry and Lui Water country above Braemar. The river crossings at the Allt Dearg and the ford below Loch Avon feeder streams are the crux — after heavy rain these are serious obstacles, not scenic inconveniences. The middle section across the high plateau is genuine wilderness: no shelter, no signal, no bail-out road within miles.
This is expert-level territory. You need a capable long-wheelbase 4×4 with good ground clearance, a snatch strap, and a second vehicle or PLB — non-negotiable. The upper track is wet peat and embedded boulders most of the year; only July through September offers anything like reliable ground conditions. No permit required but this is National Nature Reserve land — go light, camp low impact, and know where you’re crossing on the NNR boundary. Braemar is your fuel and resupply point at the south end. The reward is a Cairngorm traverse most people will never see.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry, Overland Route, Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 24 mi / 38.6 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2740 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified long-wheelbase 4x4 with recovery gear |
| Nearest town | Braemar, Aberdeenshire |
| Land manager | NatureScot / Cairngorms National Park Authority |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | cairngorms.co.uk |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Defender or Land Cruiser run this trail without modifications?
No. A stock vehicle will struggle — this route demands a modified long-wheelbase 4x4 with a meaningful lift, all-terrain tyres, and full recovery gear. The boggy sections and rocky approach to the high pass will punish low-clearance or unmodified rigs badly.
When is the Lairig an Laoigh actually passable by vehicle?
July through September is your window. Outside those months, snow, ice, and saturated ground make the high pass either impassable or genuinely dangerous. Even in summer, a wet week can close the route in practice.
Do you need a permit or permission to drive this route?
Scotland's Land Reform Act gives broad right of responsible access, but vehicular access is not the same as foot access — check with NatureScot and Cairngorms National Park Authority before you go. No fee is required, but land manager notification is strongly advised given the sensitivity of the terrain.
What's the hardest section and what makes it technical?
The high point near the plateau approaches 2,740ft and the ground either side is deeply rutted, boggy peat with embedded rock. Expect axle-deep mud traps, blind line choices, and no bailout options once you're committed to the pass — this is where recoveries happen.
Is there any chance of resupply, fuel, or help along the 24-mile route?
None. Zero cell service, no fuel, no other vehicles outside of rare chance encounters. Carry enough fuel for the full route plus a reserve, bring all your water or treat from streams, and make sure your recovery kit is comprehensive — Braemar is your first real civilisation at the south end.
Trail track
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