Visitors and outdoor access

People have been visiting the Cairngorms for centuries to appreciate the outstanding landscapes and wildlife of the region, and to experience the huge range of activities available.

Providing first-class facilities and a warm welcome to our two million annual visitors is a key priority for the Park Authority and its partners, as is managing the impact of visitors on the environment and local communities. We work closely with the Cairngorms Tourism Partnership, businesses and a range of other organisations to ensure that the National Park is a sustainable destination. The Cairngorms was the first national park in the UK to be awarded the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas in 2005.

Finding ways to change small things, like the time of year that people visit and the options available to get around the Cairngorms by active and sustainable means, can make a big difference in helping us take care of this special place for generations to come. Some of the Park Authority and partners' work in this area is summarised below.