Troubled Cairngorm Mountain Unveils Plans for UK’s Longest and Highest Toboggan Run

Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Ltd (CMSL) has submitted a full planning application to Highland Council for a low‑carbon, electric‑powered toboggan run stretching between 1.2km and 1.3km, depending on final design approval. The ride would start at around 715m above sea level, making it the highest toboggan run in the UK.

The project is being developed with Sunkid and Fairhurst Engineers, using a monorail-style track designed to follow the natural contours of the mountain. The system is intended to be efficient to install and remove seasonally, minimising environmental impact.

What Visitors Can Expect

• Dual‑rider sleds with independent braking for controlled speed.

• Year‑round operation, including in snowy conditions.

• Ride duration of around 20 minutes, including waiting time.

• Projected 75,951 riders per year, with most expected to combine the experience with a funicular journey.

• Fully accessible design, with proposals allowing visitors to reach the start via the Cairngorm funicular — something currently restricted to protect fragile habitats.

The track will weave beneath existing mountain bike trails and integrate with current infrastructure at the base area, including an existing ski tow.

The attraction is slated to be delivered by Sunkid and Fairhurst Engineers, utilizing a low-carbon, electric-powered monorail system. Key technical features include:

• Winding Track: The run consists of a round aluminium tube mounted just above the ground.

• Low Profile: Three-quarters of the track's length will be lower than 75 centimetres off the ground.

• Speed Control: Riders will have manual on-board braking, supplemented by an electronic intelligent sensor and automatic braking system to maintain safe distances.

• Minimal Footprint: The system features fixing plates that allow for complete disassembly within two weeks if required for maintenance.

• A Strategy for Seasonal Resilience

The project is part of a broader effort to diversify the resort's offerings in response to more challenging climatic conditions and shorter winter seasons.

“CMSL has been steadily strengthening the resort’s year-round appeal by expanding its range of family-friendly activities,” a spokesperson for the resort stated. “The proposed toboggan ride would add to existing attractions... helping the resort to fulfil its full potential”.

The facility will be located approximately 250 metres north-east of the rangers' base office, within a localized, already developed activity zone to minimize visual impact.

Forecasted Impact and Growth

• Resort bosses anticipate the toboggan run will become the most popular attraction at Cairngorm Mountain between May and October.

• Visitor Projections: Forecasts estimate 75,951 riders per year, with approximately 78% of users being adults.

• Resort Integration: It is expected that 75% of toboggan users will also utilize the Cairngorm funicular.

• Economic Success: According to the planning report, every mountain toboggan built by supplier Sunkid to date has been an "economic success" for its operators.

Cairngorm Mountain CEO Mike Gifford confirmed the submission, noting that the application will now proceed through the formal planning process. The resort has recorded over 170,000 visitors in the past 12 months and hopes this new addition will further solidify its appeal to the family market.