Creag Bheag | |
---|---|
Highest point | |
Elevation | 487 m (1,598 ft)[1] |
Prominence | 159[1] |
Listing | Marilyn |
Coordinates | 57°05′18″N 4°04′19″W / 57.0883710°N 4.0719483°W |
Naming | |
English translation | small rock |
Language of name | Scottish gaelic |
Geography | |
Parent range | Grampian Mountains |
OS grid | NH 74600 01742 |
Climbing | |
Easiest route | Hike from Kingussie |
The word Creag is a variation of crag (rock), while the gaelic term Bheag can be translated as small.[2]
The hill overlooks from NW the centre of Kingussie; its E flanks are bordered by the Gynack Burn, a left-hand tributary of River Spey, and the N face dominates the Loch Gynack. The hilltop is marked by a cairn, as well as a nearby S summit almost at the same elevation of the main summit. Because of its topographic prominence the hill is classified as a Marilyn.[1]
Due to the easy access and the good panorama from its summit the Creag Behag has always been a popular walk. In 1828 some young men of Kingussie erected a memorial cairn, now disappeared, in order to mourn the loss of Alexander, the 4th Duke of Gordon. For the occasion a crowd of people reached the hilltop accompanied by a band of musicians playing their instruments.[3] {The source doesn't say that. The musicians played at another event that happened years later.Please check and correct.}
The ascent to Creag Behag from Kingussie is considered a classic hillwalk, appreciated for the panoramic view from the hilltop on the surrounding area. The hike runs on well maintained and waymarked footpaths .[4]
The hill, along with the surrounding area, is part of the Cairngorms National Park.