Are you looking for an unforgettable hiking experience in Scotland? Look no further than the Cairngorms National Park, where you can embark on a unique adventure - hiking with reindeer! In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what you can expect from the Cairngorms reindeer hike. At the time of this writing, the cost for adults is 20 GBP, making it an affordable and memorable experience that nature lovers and adventurers should not miss.
History of Cairngorms Reindeer
The Cairngorms reindeer herd is a special group of animals. They are the UK's only free-ranging herd of reindeer and have been living in the Cairngorms since 1952, when a group of reindeer was brought over from Sweden. The herd has access to 10,000 acres where they graze on the mountain side. Over the years, the heard has grown from the original 7 individuals to over 150 individuals today.
The Hike
The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre offers a range of activities, but the highlight is undoubtedly the guided hikes into the rugged hills where the reindeer live. Led by experienced guides who are familiar with each reindeer, these hikes take you into the mountains, where you'll have the chance to meet the herd and learn about their history and way of life.
As you trek through the mountains to meet the herd, the landscape unfolds before you, leading you through a variety of terrains, from gentle slopes to rocky steps. A sense of adventure builds inside you as you immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings. The hike lasts about 40 minutes, and the entire tour takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Fortunately, we lucked out with the weather. Although it was pouring rain as we waited to start the hike, the rain miraculously subsided as we began the tour, staying away for the remainder of our journey. The hike is relatively easy, and there are plenty of places to rest if needed. We visited in August when muddy and boggy conditions are something to consider, especially on the mountainside where the reindeer roam. The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre is strict about guests wearing proper footwear, such as wellies or hiking boots, anytime of the year. Check their requirements here.
Pro tip: Depending on the time of year, the trail can change significantly. Make sure you check the website to get a sense of what the hike might be like when you visit. Be sure to bring sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, and a waterproof jacket, no matter what time of year it is, as the weather in Scotland can be unpredictable.
Meet the Herd
As you approach the area where the herd roams, the guides call out to the reindeer. At first, we didn't see any reindeer, but soon they began to emerge from the top of the hill, making their way down towards us. We watched in awe as the silhouettes of the reindeer appeared against the sky. Their size and stoic nature left us humbled. We continued to observe the herd as they made their way through our group. One reindeer decided to join us on our hike and politely walked right next to my niece all on its own volition. He must have felt her good vibes :). Check out this video to see the moment when it happened!
The guides led us to a flat area where the reindeer clearly knew they were going to be rewarded with a treat. You do get the opportunity to offer food to the reindeer but the Centre has adjusted the experience to be more hands off then it previously was. That being said, even after the grain was gone, the reindeer still hung around and grazed on the heather in the stunning landscape allowing for plenty of photo opportunities.
You can observe the reindeer's behavior and interactions with each other, as well as with humans. You may notice that some reindeer are more curious than others and may approach you for a closer look. Others may be more reserved and prefer to keep their distance. The guides were extremely knowledgeable. They knew each reindeer by name and their life history. The guides shared fascinating insights about the animals' behavior, habitat, and survival techniques, making for an educational and engaging experience.
Conclusion
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, a Cairngorms reindeer hike is a must-do experience. Not only is it a chance to get up close and personal with these majestic animals, but it also offers an opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
As we walked back to the visitor center, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experience we just had. It's moments like these that remind us of the beauty and wonder of the world around us, and the importance of taking time to appreciate it.
So if you're looking for a truly unique and unforgettable adventure, I highly recommend the Cairngorms Reindeer Hike. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with nature and these majestic animals. It's an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
So beautiful! And those reindeer look majestic and regal. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience, it’s so cool to read! #jealous