Coire an t-Sneachda, Glacial cirque in Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Coire an t-Sneachda is a glacial cirque with steep granite cliffs rising to 1215 meters (3986 feet) at Cairn Lochan peak, while the floor sits at over 900 meters (2953 feet). The bowl-shaped depression creates a natural amphitheater enclosed by towering rock faces on all sides.
A glacier carved this deep bowl-shaped depression during the Younger Dryas period, roughly 10000 years ago in the Scottish Highlands. The remnants of this glacial sculpting continue to define the Cairngorms landscape today.
The Scottish Gaelic name translates to 'Corrie of the Snow', a reference to the winter conditions and snow that covers this valley during much of the year.
The Cairngorm Mountain car park provides direct access to a well-maintained path to the cirque, with a walking time of roughly 45 to 60 minutes. The route is clearly marked, but visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions and steep sections.
Ring ouzels, snow buntings, and ptarmigan birds live in this natural amphitheater, making it a notable location for bird watching in the Highlands. The harsh conditions and elevation create a rare habitat for mountain specialists.
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