Cairngorm Mountain x RSPB Abernethy | Ranger Learning Day

October 2nd, 2025.

Mountain Ranger Services Team Up On Plateau Path Maintenance

Back in late August 2025, rangers from the Cairngorm Mountain Ranger Service and RSPB Abernethy teamed up for a day of learning and path maintenance skill-sharing out on the Cairngorm plateau.

The Cairngorm Mountain Ranger Service has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience over the years from the many path contractors they’ve worked with across the Cairngorm Estate, which they were eager to share with neighbouring landowners.

In the morning, the team worked their way along the Northern Corries path from Cairn Gorm, clearing waterbars and drain dips before settling on the south side of Cairn Lochan. The afternoon was then spent repairing sections of the plateau path that leads towards Ben Macdui — a very busy route for hillwalkers and mountaineers traversing the Cairngorms.

“We are learning from their path work expertise which is fantastic for us” – Sarah White, Community Ranger, RSPB Abernethy

 

Path maintenance is a core part of the Cairngorm Mountain Ranger Service’s duties. Supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the team has delivered a substantial amount of work over the years to improve the path network throughout the Cairngorm Estate.

“It’s been a good ‘team day’ for everybody and learning new skills.” – Ruari MacDonald, Senior Ranger, Cairngorm Mountain

 

We look forward to more opportunities to collaborate with our RSPB colleagues in the future, continuing to make these mountains a great place to explore.