Cairngorm Mountain

30km of north-facing slopes are located in two corries – Coire Cas and Coire na Ciste. The funicular served both, but as this is out of action, surface lifts are required to get to the top. The easiest terrain is in the Ptarmigan and Ciste Bowls at the top of the hill or in the Sheiling area at the base, whilst the toughest terrain can be found in Ciste Gully. There are also excellent touring opportunities on the Cairngorm Plateau and beyond.

The big snowmaking investment should help ensure adequate snow cover, but from here progression very much relies on the Coire Cas t-bar further up the hill being open. Those that find t-bars difficult will struggle.

In decent snow, there are some good options for intermediates. The blue rated M2 is a good, winding cruise from the summit and the slopes of the Fiacaill are often underused. If pisted, the White Lady is in the grasp of most intermediates, as is the adjacent M1 Racetrack. In very good conditions, most intermediates should be able to tackle the Ciste Gully.

The removal of the West Wall and Ciste chairlifts has reduced the offering for advanced and expert skiers and boarders. The long gully runs in Coire na Ciste rely on there being sufficient snow for the West Wall Poma lift and even if complete, there are often huge queues for it. A pair of touring skins will make a big difference to your day here.