The 20 Most Amazing Peaks in Angus

For those new to Munro bagging, Mount Keen is often recommended. It's the most easterly Munro and, while long, is considered a technically easy climb. Its accessible nature makes it a great walk to share with friends or as a first Munro. Similarly, Driesh Summit, especially when combined with Mayar, is described as a good beginner Munro that is easy to navigate.

Many visitors enjoy the circular route that tackles both Driesh Summit and Mayar summit, starting from the dense woodland of Glen Doll Forest. Another popular option is the route to Mount Keen, which often involves the historic 'Queen's Well'. For more challenging circuits, the area around Glas Maol summit offers routes for experienced hikers, such as the Monega Hill and Glas Maol round from Glen Isla.

While many of the higher peaks are challenging, the Sidlaw Hills offer more accessible options. For instance, a five-mile round trip covering Craigowl Hill and Auchterhouse Hill provides scenic overviews of Dundee and the Tay Estuary, which can be suitable for families looking for a rewarding walk without extreme difficulty. The Angus Glens also offer numerous lower-level walks that are less strenuous.

The diverse landscape of Angus offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. On Mount Keen, there's a chance to spot adders. The Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve, which is part of the Driesh Summit and Mayar summit circular walk, is known for golden eagles and rare mountain willows. The tranquil Angus Glens are generally excellent for observing various bird species and other local fauna.

Glas Maol summit, standing at 1,068 meters (3,504 feet), is the highest point in Angus. It is part of a circuit of six Munros east of the Glenshee Ski Centre and offers expansive views across the Cairngorms.

The best time to climb mountains in Angus is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when weather conditions are more stable and daylight hours are longer. However, the region offers year-round opportunities for experienced hikers, with winter climbs requiring appropriate gear and expertise due to snow and ice.

Yes, near the Angus peaks, you can find the Syd Scroggie Memorial, Balkello Hill. This memorial honors Syd Scroggie, a poet and hillwalker, and offers wonderful views of the surrounding high mountains. It's a significant spot for those interested in local history and the spirit of Scottish hillwalking.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the area east of the Glenshee Ski Centre is ideal. This region features a natural circuit of six Munros, including Glas Maol summit, Creag Leacach, and Tom Buidhe Summit. These can be combined for a demanding day out, offering extensive views and a true test of endurance.

Beyond peak bagging, the Angus region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes. For more specific routes, check out the Easy hikes in Angus or Mountain Hikes in Angus guides. The area is also popular for cycling and wildlife watching, particularly in the tranquil Angus Glens.

Yes, the Angus mountains feature several interesting geological formations. The Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve, located near Driesh Summit and Mayar summit, is a classic example of a glaciated corrie. Additionally, the summit cairn of Creag Leacach is unique, running along a wall over the rocky peak itself.

Hiking Mount Keen is considered a long but technically easy climb. While exact times vary based on fitness and starting point, a typical round trip can take 5-7 hours. Cycling in for part of the route can significantly reduce the overall time and effort required for the ascent.

From the highest peaks in Angus, such as Glas Maol summit, you can expect expansive views across the Cairngorms. From Driesh Summit, on a clear day, you can enjoy views over to the Glenshee Munros and Lochnagar. The effort of the climb is consistently rewarded with incredible panoramic vistas of the surrounding wild glens, rugged mountains, and moorland.