Càrn Ealasaid from the Lecht

In the Eastern Highlands, the A939 connects Ballater to Tomintoul. Now a section on the scenic 'SnowRoads', this smooth but somewhat twisty road climbs and descends several times and crosses The Lecht Ski Centre, a few miles south of Tomintoul.

There are two large parking areas either side of the ski centre's main complex though parking may be a bit tight if skiing is taking place.

Should skiing be in full swing, it is also worth noting that depending on the tows in operation and ski-runs being used, you may have to veere slightly further south at the beginning of this hillwalk to avoid clashing with skiers.

Starting by the Lecht Ski Centre's main building, aim southwards for another smaller green building below 'The Grouse' ski-tow.

Behind this building, a rough track aims south-west and begins to climb uphill. Within 200m, the track turns west, climbs a height of 100m and meets with a stone cairn-cum-seating construction 1 by the top of a couple of ski-tows.

Veer right (north) and follow the track as it continues up Beinn a' Chruinnich and onto its summit 2 by the top of the Harrier ski-tow, the longest in the resort.

Turning west and away from the track, follow a faint trod through heather down to the peat-hag bealach between Beinn a' Chruinnich and Càrn Ealasaid.

A rather gentle climb up 100m following a worn path through stunted and burnt heather, leads onto Càrn Ealasaid's summit 3 with its small untidy cairn.

For most, a simple about-turn on Càrn Ealasaid's summit and re-trace of footsteps, returns to the Lecht Ski Centre.

On Càrn Ealasaid's summit, a rough estate track can be seen heading southwards along the hill's summit crest. This track travels over Cairn Vaich and downhill to return to the roadside by Cock Bridge, therefore making for a fine alternative route if transport can be arranged to save a walk of 4km back uphill on the A939.