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Section 12 Glen Cannich to Glen Carron
This section refers to the hills and mountains from Glen Cannich to Glen Carron including the remote mountains of Loch Mullardoch and Loch Monar. They cover the Corbetts, Grahams and Munros that I have climbed in this area since 2003. Index - Section 12
Trip Reports - Section 12Sgurr a'Chaorachain and Sgurr Choinnich2 May 2010
I was supposed to meet a couple of friends to climb these two Munros but they were unable to make it. I was therefore on my own as I set off from the car park on the north side of the A890, crossed the main road and then the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh railway line, at a level crossing. There were a couple of other vehicles already in the car park and two arrived as I commenced the walk along the vehicle track on the south side of the railway line. After three quarters of a kilometre following this railway line, the track turned and headed south over the River Carron and up through the forest on a steady incline. I have previously taken my mountain bike up this route but have to admit pushing it most of the way until well beyond gates that need to be negotiated. On this visit I found changes had been made to the wicket gate at the side of the deer gate to enable cyclists to pass through. Beyond these gates the track levelled out along the plains of Ardach, passed a cairn marking the route to the Corbett, Sgurr na Feartaig, and below the west face of Sgurr nan Ceannaichean. At the point where the track made a major change in direction towards Pollan Buidhe a small cairn marked the start of the stalker’s path which led to a wire bridge, the crossing point of the Allt a’Chonais. This stream was relatively low but I used the bridge and followed the rough stalker’s path as it gained some height. I left the path and crossed the Allt Leathad an Tobair beside the waterfall as I had decided to climb Sgurr a’Chaorachain, by its north ridge, first. I had ruled out Coire Choinnich, which was my route last time, as there was still a fair amount of snow in the corrie. It was a steady climb as I headed towards Sgurr a’Chaorachain avoiding boulders and snow patches and I eventually arrived on its summit, just below the cairn to find it surrounded by snow. From the summit cairn I had views across Loch Monar to Lurg Mhor. I descended the west ridge of Sgurr a’Chaorachain, which involved a couple of easy rocky steps, to the Bealach Coire Choinnich. The Corbett Top, Sgurr na Conbhaire, which is an extension of the south ridge of Sgurr Choinnich, was my next target but rather than climb this Munro and walk out its south ridge I dropped into the corrie to the south of Bealach Coire Choinnich and traversed below the south ridge. This necessitated crossing a few boulder fields before reaching the col north of Sgurr na Conbhaire. It was then an easy climb to its summit cairn with good views down Loch Monar and across to Lurg Mhor. I took some photos here before returning to the col and climbing the south ridge of Sgurr Choinnich, spotting several walkers doing these Munros in an anti-clockwise direction, as per some of the handbooks. From the summit of Sgurr Choinnich, I had views of Loch Carron and across to the Islands of Skye, Rum and Eigg. The mountains to the north were also clear of cloud and included the Torridon, Slioch and the Fisherfield Munros. I had my lunch at the summit cairn before descending the west ridge. Here again there were a few easy rocky steps, before I reached the Bealach Bhearnais and the stalker’s path back to the wire bridge over the Allt a’Chonais and then the outward route to Craig. This is where a bike would come in handy especially the long downhill section through the forest. However today, possibly due to the bright weather, the walk didn’t seem as long as normal and just before re-crossing the River Carron I met the first walker of the day, a backpacker heading in the opposite direction. On my return to the car park it was almost full.
Moruisg and its Corbett Tops23 January 2010
The start for the ascent of the Munro, Moruisg, was the A890, Achnasheen to Lochcarron Road west of Loch Sgamhain at grid reference NH080520 where there is a lay- by. This parking area is marked on the map. I passed through a gate and descended to the River Carron where there is a bridge over the river and a short distance further on a railway underpass. Once beyond these obstacles the open hillside was directly in front of me. Normally this ground is quite wet and boggy but after overnight frost it was reasonably firm. A gradual ascent took me over rough ground where the stream banks still held some snow. It was a fine morning with the sun shinning on the nearby mountains, other than those to the east which were cloud covered. However as I was ascending the north face of the mountain I was in the shadow of the hill. Prior to reaching the snow line which was around 550 meters I came across some deer who soon disappeared. Once at the snow line I was able to find some more bare vegetation before eventually fitting my crampons to cross the snow which was hard packed and initially quite steep. The crampons were left on until I returned to below this snow line later in the day. The gradient later eased and I reached a cairn on the north-east ridge. The summit area was devoid of snow but covered in ice and there were a number of snow buntings flying around. From the summit cairn I had views of Slioch, the Torridon mountains and across to Skye while the mountain tops to the south were covered in cloud. With the demise of Sgurr nan Ceannaichean to Corbett status I decided to explore the hills to the east, which consisted of four Corbett Tops. I descended to the col with Moruisg's East Top but the weather was starting to close in and the cloud base lowered and at times engulfed the summit of Moruisg. The route onto the East Top looked a bit risky with cornices and a large build up of snow so I climbed this Corbett Top by initially heading south-east to avoid these hazards and then onto the summit, which was marked by a a few stones. There were several patches of bare vegetation and rocks visible but as I was still wearing my crampons I tried to find some snow as I descended east and made the easy ascent of the second Corbett Top of the day, Moruisg Far East Top. It was then out to Toll a’Ghobhain just a wee knoll but still classed as a Corbett Top and then Carn Gorm which did involve a bit more effort but nothing significant. By the time I reached this fourth Corbett Top the sun had disappeared completely. I sought some shelter behind the summit cairn from a cool breeze while I ate my lunch. During my break there was a light fall of snow. I was tempted to descend north to the A890 and make the long walk back along the main road but as the terrain looked rather hostile I decided to return by my ascent route. This did involve several re-ascents but I was able to by-pass the summit of Toll a’Ghobhain. I encountered a few more snow showers and was engulfed by low cloud on a couple of occasions which made route finding a bit tougher compared to the outward route. However on the descent of Moruisg the cloud cleared and a ptarmigan took flight. On nearing the railway line the late afternoon train was heading for Kyle of Lochalsh. The early morning frost had lifted and the ground near the end of the walk was a bit wet and boggy.
An Cruachan, Cam na Breabaig, Faochaig and Aonach Buidhe23 – 24 May 2009
An Cruachan is a very remote Graham, located in the Pait Forest, which is south of Lurg Mhor, one of the remotest Munros. The Graham, Cam na Breabaig stands opposite the Corbetts, Faochaig and Aonach Buidhe. I wanted to climb all four mountains but realistically it would take at least two days so I planned a backpacking trip. I had considered walking in from Attadale, in the west, and walking out to Killilan but I couldn’t arrange the necessary transport back to Attadale for my car. I therefore had to start at Killilan around 9 kilometres from Dornie which is on the A87 Invermoriston to Kyle of Lochalsh Road. The road to Killilan is single track and a car park, which has recently been upgraded, is located just after the bridge over the River Ling. Day OneAs I was preparing to the leave the car park a couple of guys arrived back at their vehicles obviously having spent a night out in the hills. I set off along the tarred road passed the farm at Killilan, where goats were obviously reared. A black Highland bull was being fed by the farmer but the bull didn’t appear too happy when being patted by his food supplier. Another cyclist, this time with a dog, was headed back to the car park as I continued along the tarred road in Glen Elchaig. Beyond the property at Coille-righ the road changed to a good quality vehicle track with occasional sections of tar and I was now wishing that I had fixed and used my bike. There were now lots of sheep with lambs, birds including the sound of cuckoos, Highland Cattle and their young calves together with a few deer which kept my mind occupied and away from the bike issue. The track eventually reached Loch na Leitreach and I could now see the area where I intended pitching my tent. Beyond Loch na Leitreach I came to the house at Carnach and then entered Srath Duilleach where there were loads of stags with their velvet and sheep with their lambs. I continued along the Srath looking for a suitable camping area and found a reasonable spot just before Iron Lodge and beside the Allt na Doire Gairbhe. It was quite a showery morning, as forecasted, and I had to pitch my tent in the rain. It was also time for lunch and after around an hour I continued up Srath Duilleach passed Iron Lodge to a junction of tracks. They were now rather rough compared to earlier and I took the right hand track which continued up the side of the Allt na Doire Gairbhe through Doire Gharbh to Loch Mhoicean. By this time the track had reverted to a rather wet path. There were three guys fishing in the Loch and I presumed they were from the Range Rover that passed me earlier in the day and was now parked beside Iron Lodge. There had been a short dry spell but heavier rain had arrived and the cloud was now low down on the mountains. The rain was forecasted to only last a couple of hours so I was hoping that it and the cloud would disappear by the time I reached An Cruachan. Once beyond the loch I decided to try and retain the height I had gained rather than follow the path and descend slightly into Coire nan Each. However this was an error as I was forced to climb higher to avoid frequent gullies. In the end I was too high and had to descend slightly to the peat hagged col between An Socach and An Cruachan. I climbed to the summit cairn of An Cruachan but due to the low cloud there were no views. I returned to the col and gradually descended to the path in Coire an Each and returned to Loch Mhoicean. It was still raining and I had a decision to make whether to return to my tent or to tackle the Graham, Cam na Breabaig. I decided on the latter and at the north side of Loch Mhoicean I left the path and made a gradual ascent to loads of peat hags which had to be worked round before climbing the north-east ridge of Cam na Breabaig. The cloud was now thicker as I reached the summit cairn. There was no point in hanging around in the cloud so I set the compass for the track running from the west end of Loch Mullardoch to Iron Lodge and immediately on leaving the top scared a deer which was very close in the low cloud. The track was eventually reached and I followed it towards Iron Lodge. As I began to descend the rain ceased and the cloud later started to break up. The couple of hours of rain that had been forecasted lasted around 6 hours, so the forecast wasn’t very accurate. From Iron Lodge it was only a short walk back to my tent and time for supper and some sleep. Day TwoIn the morning the weather was fine but I had to wait for a fellow Corbett Bagger who was driving to, and cycling in from Killilan. I moved my tent and pitched it at the north end of Loch na Leitreach as the plan was to climb Faochaig first and that meant starting at Carnach. I sat around enjoying the views, watching several cyclists heading up the Glen and partaking of a few cups of coffee. Late in the morning my walking companion arrived and we set off up the path on the east side of the Allt Domhain. The path was badly eroded in a couple of sections with steep drops into the stream so care was needed at these points. The path was followed to its end as the cloud lowered and the rain started. Apparently, according to my walking companion, it was only to be showers. However as we worked our way up the south side of Faochaig the rain became heavier and it was rather windy. The summit cairn was reached but there was nothing to see. We navigated and paced the route to the knoll to the north-west and spotted a ptarmigan which quickly flew off. Another bearing took us to the stalker’s path on the west side of the mountain, which is rather rocky. The rain did not ease and lower down we met a chap commencing the ascent of Faochaig having already climbed Aonach Buidhe. The path joined another that ran between Faochaig and Aonach Buidhe and we walked south on this path to its highest point. Here we found what looked like an attempt to build a track on the west side of Aonach Buidhe although there didn't seem to be a proper starting point and it just suddenly ended. However it did allow us to gain some height. We worked our way in the low cloud and rain to the summit cairn of Aonach Buidhe. We descended the south side of Aonach Buidhe and not long after leaving the summit the rain ceased and the cloud started to break up. If we had waited a few minutes on the summit of Aonach Buidhe we might have had a view for a change. Several Golden Plovers were heard and we saw one of them flying around the hillside. The cloud continued to rise above the mountain tops as we descended into Doire Gharbh and to the track beside the Allt na Doire Gairbhe, which I had used the previous day to reach An Cruachan. This track was followed back to Iron Lodge and Carnach. My walking companion was cycling out and heading home. I was told that the forecast was for rain the following morning so I decided to pack up my tent and gear as it was still early evening and I had a few hours of daylight left. It was a long two hour walk out on a deserted track except for cattle and sheep. On reaching the car park at Killilan my vehicle was the only one left. previous ascent of Faochaig and Aonach Buidhe
Sgurr na Feartaig23 November 2008
This was the third day of a long weekend staying at Plockton and was Shona's walk. Unfortunately, weather wise, she had selected the poorest day of the weekend as it was windy with sleet and snow showers. Even driving to the start, part of the road had a covering of sleet. Not surprisingly there were no other vehicles in the car park opposite the level crossing at Craig on the A890 Achnasheen to Lochcarron Road. Once dressed for the inclement weather we crossed the A890 and the level crossing before walking along the track that followed the railway line east. Soon the track left the railway line, crossed the River Carron and headed up through a forest. Beyond a deer gate we were onto the open hillside but stayed on the track for another kilometre before following a wet and boggy path to the bridge over the Allt a'Chonais, which was a bit wobbly and the wooden slats slippery. The path on the west side of the stream wasn't obvious but as we climbed the hillside we regained the path and followed it onto Na Meallanan Buidhe. The weather conditions, as expected, were now worse with some strong winds, sleet and snow showers. Occasionally we were brought to a halt by the wind but no one complained and it was just head down and keep going as the path was still fairly obvious despite a covering of snow and some ice. On reaching the shoulder of Sgurr na Feartaig's North Top the path disappeared in a white wilderness so bearings were required firstly to reach Loch Sgurr na Feartaig and then the summit cairn. It was rather unpleasant at the top so once I had taken a couple of photographs it was time to head back to Craig by the route of ascent. However all the ladies had bagged a new Corbett despite the poor weather conditions.
Sguman Coinntich14 September 2008
A few days before this walk I contacted Inverinate Estate regarding stalking restrictions as we wanted to climb this Corbett in conjunction with the Corbetts, Aonach Buidhe and Faochaig. However the person at the Estate Office was rather unhelpful and in fact stated that they would have three shooting parties out, one on each of these mountains, despite the fact that the Estate is massive and contains many more mountain and stalking areas. On questioning him further he did relent a bit saying I could contact the stalker to confirm where they would be shooting on 15 September. He blamed the Deer Commission for the cull of stags when it is more likely paying guests who they are catering for. I decided to alter our plans and climb Sguman Coinntich on its own the previous day as it was a Sunday when there was no stalking. We left the A87, just west of Dornie and drove up the single track road signposted Sallachy and Killilan. Just beyond its junction with the road to Camas-luinie there was a public car park and warning signs about a working estate and high powered rifles. It was bright with some high cloud, well above the summits, when we set off from the car park and walked along the road to the buildings at Killilan. Just before the bridge over the Allt a’Choir Mhoir we followed its north bank where there were traces of a path through bracken, some of which was almost six feet in height. Higher up we came to the estate road that headed up the glen towards the Bealach Mhic Bheathain. At the Coire Mor we left this estate road, crossed the Allt a’Choire Mhoir, and some wet ground before the going became steeper and drier. We worked our way through some rocks before reaching the summit cairn and trig point, which was badly eroded and was virtually only standing on metal stilts. There were views of the Rum and Skye Cuillin, Plockton, Lurg Mhor, Faochaig, Aonach Buidhe, the Kintail and Knoydart mountains and Beinn Sgritheall. Rather than descend by our upward route we decided to head south-east towards the Allt a’Ghlas-choire through obvious deer grazing areas and a large herd ran off. The stags may be fortunate to miss the following day’s cull, if they were actually shooting in that area as mentioned earlier. Lower down we came to the stalker’s path and followed it to the tarred road in Glen Elchaig, east of Faddoch. It was then a walk along the tarred road to Killilan, where it started to rain but we managed to reach the car without getting soaked.
Creag Dubh Mhor and Beinn Dronaig20 – 21 July 2008
I had visited Bendronaig Bothy on a couple of occasions en-route to or from Lurg Mhor and on my first ascent of Beinn Dronaig. It is owned and maintained by Attadale Estate and I always considered it to be an excellent place for a rest and a brew. I also thought it would make an ideal stopover if I was ever in the area again. A plan was hatched as I needed to make a second ascent of Beinn Dronaig and I didn’t fancy the long cycle from Attadale on estate tracks, which involved a fair bit of climbing in and out. I decided on an approach from Achintee on the A890 Lochcarron to Kyle of Lochalsh Road, just south-west of the hamlet of Strathcarron. For those who prefer public transport the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh train stops at Strathcarron. On checking the map I found that I could include the Graham, Creag Dubh Mhor which meant I didn’t have to walk in and out by the same path. Achintee itself is just off the main road and consists of a few houses. Signs mark the route to the ‘Hill Paths’ and after a bit of searching I found a suitable overnight parking spot beside the electric sub-station. This was on the signposted route so I only had a few yards to walk before I passed through a wicket gate where there was another signpost. I took the one marked ‘Bearneas Bothy’ which passed through a fairly new plantation. This led to a stile and a stream, which I crossed. Thereafter the path became fairly indistinct due to the long vegetation, including bracken. However at the start I had viewed the path’s location and was soon able to re-join it. Thereafter it was fairly obvious. The first destination of the day, the rather craggy Creag Dubh Mhor, could be seen from well down the path. I soon reached the River Taodail and followed its south bank. Further along I took the left fork which continued above this river before following tributaries to the south that led to a couple of waterfalls. Here I saw some deer hinds and a calf. The path was followed, below the cliffs of Creag Dubh Mhor, to its bealach with its easterly 544 summit. I could now see Beinn Droniag, Bidean a’Choire Sheasgaich and Lurg Mhor. Initially it was an easy climb as I headed towards the summit of Creag Dubh Mhor but it later it became quite steep. However I was soon on the summit of this craggy mountain with views as already described, of the Torridon Mountains and the Island of Eigg. The forecast had been for a reasonable day but unfortunately it wasn’t correct. I had brief showers and there was a cold wind blowing. It was time for lunch so I found some shelter looking at the fairly complex mountain and the trig point of Carn Geuradainn. Once fed, I descended to the triple lochans, at the head of Coire Odhar, and made the short ascent to Carn Geuradainn. The trig point collectors hadn’t been here yet as its metal plate was still intact. I descended south-east over relatively easy terrain which was obviously a favourite feeding area for hinds and stags, some of whom ran off, others just continued to eat. A mountain hare ran off. The path from Bealach Alltan Ruairidh was soon reached and I followed it down to the vehicle track from Attadale, although the latter stages the path disappeared in boggy grasses. The track was followed to the Iron Bridge over the Uisge Dubh and onto Bendroniag Bothy where I was welcomed by the laird, who had been out for a Sunday drive with friends. A lengthy rest and brew was the order of the day before setting off for Beinn Dronaig. It was a steady climb, seeking the easiest route, onto the west ridge, then an undulating walk along this ridge to its summit. Here again it was cold and windy but I had views of the Glen Elchaig hills, An Socach, An Riabhachan, Loch Morar, and the Islands of Eigg, Rum and Skye. The descent route north-west was rather steep and rocky to the vehicle track well below Coire na Sorna. Just short of the track I came across some resting hinds and a calf but unfortunately they spotted me as well and were up and running very quickly. Once on the vehicle track it was a short walk back to Bendronaig Bothy for an overnight stop. The only downside on a very well kept bothy, with inside loo, was that on lighting the fire the bothy filled with smoke so I gave the idea of a fire a miss. Early the next morning I retraced my steps along the vehicle track towards Attadale and then the path, which was still difficult to find in the lower stretches even knowing its location, to the Bealach Alltan Ruairidh. The path passed above Lochan Fuara and it was a lovely sunny morning and the fish were jumping. The path continued passed several other lochans before finally descending to Achinte and the end of interesting backpack. previous ascent of Beinn Droniag
Carn Gorm14 June 2008
The Graham, Carn Gorm, is located between Glens Cannich and Strathfarrar and although there is a path shown on the map rising out of Glen Strathfarrar there is the problem of access to this glen via the locked gate at Inchmore. However I decided to climb this hill from Glen Cannich, which is accessed from the village of Cannich on the A831. The River Cannich flows through Loch Craskie and just west of the loch there is a small concrete road bridge leading to the houses at Craskie. A small parking area can be found just east of this bridge. I crossed the bridge, by-passed the houses to the east by walking through a field and following the line of the forest to the north of the dwellings. The going beyond here was quite awkward with long heather and bracken to wade through but the occasional animal tracks helped. On this ascent I encountered the first rain shower of the day. Once beyond the forest line I came to a fence, which wasn’t quite as high as the normal deer fence I am used to, but it wasn’t a problem to cross as some of the wire strands were broken. Another section of rough vegetation was crossed before things improved and the going became quite pleasant as I headed for the 638 point following some grassy rakes. A dotterel was disturbed by my presence, in fact I saw three dotterel on this walk. On the ascent of the 638 point I had views up Glen Cannich to Loch Mullardoch and the nearby Corbett Beinn a’Bha’ach Ard. The next section involved a descent to the north side of Loch Coir’an Uillt Ghiubhais before the final ascent to the summit cairn of Carn Gorm where there was a cold wind blowing. It felt closer to winter than mid-summer. I found some shelter for a break before setting off for the return by the route of ascent although I by-passed the 638 Point to the north thus avoiding some re-ascent. The bogy areas were still relatively dry despite a week of rain showers so the going was fine except the final section through the long heather and fresh bracken mentioned earlier.
An Sidhean8 May 2008
The Corbett An Sidhean is located on the north side of Loch Monar. However access to this remote mountain is greatly assisted by the private road up Glen Strathfarrar, although times of access are restricted by a locked gate at Inchmore. Details can be obtained from The Mountaineering Council of Scotland. Inchmore is just off the A831 Beauly to Cannich road. It is requested that vehicles are not driven as far as Monar Lodge but parked beside the dam. It was a short walk to the Lodge and a signposted route around the property. The path headed along the shore of Loch Monar, climbed through a gully before returning to near the shore line. It then crossed the Allt a’Choire Dhomhain and the Allt na Cois by footbridges. During this walk we had great views down the loch to Lurg Mhor. Bidein a’Choire Sheasgaich was a bit hazy as were the Glen Cannich Munros. The snow filled gullies of Maoile Lunndaidh were very prominent. Beyond the Allt na Cois another footpath climbed north then north-west before it swung round to the north-east as it gained height and became indistinct. At that point we headed onto the Mullach a’Gharbh-leathaid ridge. Initially this was a steady climb before the gradient eased. The summit was eventually reached with additional views of Moruisg, the Strathconnon Corbetts and the hazy Fannaichs. It had been a warm and sunny ascent so the breeze, while seated at the summit eating lunch, was welcome. Another couple arrived at the summit before our departure to the bealach at the head of Gleann Dubh. Once beyond this point we crossed the shoulder of Meall Dubh na Caoidhe before descending to the path on the west side of the Allt a’Choire Dhomhainn. We followed this path to Loch Monar and then returned to the start by the outward route.
Carn na Coinnich9 February 2008
The BBC mountain forecast the previous evening indicated that it was to be very windy, around 70 miles per hour with gusts as much as 100 miles per hour on the higher peaks. In these circumstances the chances of reaching the summit of this Graham was fairly remote. However the forecast in the morning gave the wind speed as 40 – 50 miles per hour with no mention of gusts so things were looking up. The start of the walk was in Strathconnon which is reached from Marybank on the A832, west of Beauly. An unclassified, single track road runs along the south side of the River Connon to Loch Achonachie, Loch Meig and then the River Meig. Just before the bridge over the River Meig an estate road continues along the south side of the River with a large gate. Signs indicate that the road is private although it does say that walkers are welcome. There was a parking area beside the gate. I walked west along the estate road for over a kilometre and just before Home Farm Cottage took the vehicle track which headed south up the side of a forest. Beyond the forest and at a junction of tracks stags, which were being fed by the estate with hay or silage, ran off up the hillside. The vehicle track continued across the open hillside before it followed the side of a stream. This track was shown on the map as a path but had obviously been upgraded to allow stalkers to gain access to the hills by vehicle rather than on foot. Crossing the stream was a bit awkward due to the recent rain and snow melt. There were good views back across Strathconnon to Meallan nan Uan and Sgurr a’Mhuilinn. Beyond that were the Achnashellach mountains where a search was on going for a missing climber. Unfortunately at lunch time that day he was found dead near Sgorr Ruadh. I disturbed more deer as I headed up the track which was in reasonable condition until I came to a steeper section where there was a bit of erosion. The gradient eased and the track became wet in places. I was being watched by some deer on Carn na Coinnich's north ridge, their head, ears or antlers protruded above the sky-line. At 600 metres I left the track and crossed some peat bog before climbing onto the north ridge of Carn na Coinnich where an All Terrain Vehicle track went to within metres of the rocky summit with its trig point. It was windy on the summit but nothing near the 50 miles per hour forecast. I had views down to the Orrin Reservoir, the cloud topped Strathfarrar Munros and west to Bac an Eich, An Sidhean and Maoile Lunndaidh. After a coffee break I headed across peat hags, some filled with snow, to the south side of Loch Gruamach and descended north-west towards the Allt Baile na Creige across some wet and slippery vegetation. I was hoping to find the path shown on my map but even looking down into the glen I couldn’t see it. I followed the stream downhill until it entered a gorge. Occasionally I thought I had found the path but it appeared to be deer tracks. I am fairly certain that the path does not exist. Lower down I had to regain some height to avoid the gorge before descending into the forest where there was a track. I followed this track which took me to the south side of the River Meig and thereafter to Dalbreac Lodge, Home Farm Cottage and back to the start where I spoke to a local couple, the only people I met all day.
Beinn na Muice29 October 2007
It was another sunny morning in Inverness with a light covering of snow on the top of Ben Wyvis. I was en-route to Glen Strathfarrar to climb the Graham, Beinn na Muice. Access to Glen Strathfarrar is from the A831 Beauly to Cannich Road at Struy Bridge. A locked gate prevents access to the Glen but a gatekeeper, who resides in the adjoining cottage at Inchmore, is employed between April and the end of October to permit access during certain days and times. Once I had received my permit and accessed the Glen I headed west with views of snow topped mountains. I parked just off the Glen road where it crossed the Allt Toll a’Mhuic and walked up the vehicle track on the west side of this stream. After around a kilometre I left the track and commenced the ascent of Beinn na Muice. The going was fairly steep over a mixture of grasses and heather avoiding some rocky outcrops with views over to the snow capped Sgurr na Lapaich and Carn nan Gobhar. During this ascent I disturbed a couple of deer. Higher up, I had views to the north of Carn an Daimh Bhain and Sgurr na Muice. During this ascent route I was sheltered from the westerly wind and this continued as I headed along the east ridge of Beinn na Muice as there was a gully on the north side running parallel to the ridge. I later climbed onto the rocky ridge and followed it to the small summit cairn with views west to Loch Monar, Lurg Mhor, Bidean an Eoin Deirg and the snow covered Maoile Lunndaidh. From the summit of Beinn na Muice I continued west along its fine west ridge with improving views of Loch Monar although shower clouds were drifting across its west end. At the end of the ridge, with views down to Monar Lodge, I commenced the descent towards the road east of Monar Dam. This descent was fairly steep and quite tricky as the vegetation was rather wet and slippery with lots of rocky outcrops to avoid. A couple of stags, who were now friends again after the rut, spotted me and ran off. It took me a while to get down onto the Glen Road which was followed by an easy and pleasant walk of around 1.5 kilometres east to my starting point and the end of a short day on a fine wee hill.
Bidein a’Choire Sheasgaich and Lurg Mhor8 September 2007
Frances had attempted these two Munros on a previous occasion staying overnight at Bendronaig Bothy. However a situation arose that they were unable to climb these mountains. Attadale Estate own the bothy and ensure that it is well maintained and even supply some wood. There is also an indoor loo which requires the cistern to be filled with a bucket of water from the nearby stream. It is probably one of the best bothies in Scotland. I was booked by Frances, who had only four Munros left to climb, including these two. She wished to tackle them from Bendronaig Bothy as she had transport arranged. For me this would be a new ascent route to Bidein a’Choire Sheasgaich although I had been to Bendronaig Bothy before when I climbed the Corbett Beinn Dronaig. We set off from the bothy and walked along the vehicle track towards Coire na Sorna but soon left the track and climbed over rough and wet ground towards the west ridge of Sail Riabhach. The forecast was for the unsettled weather to continue so it wasn’t a surprise when we entered the cloud base and later had to don waterproof clothing due to the light drizzle. The west ridge was reached and we walked to the summit of Sail Riabhach and onto the south-east side of Bidean a’Choire Sheasgaich where we joined the path that led from its bealach with Lurg Mhor. We followed this path to the summit cairn of Bidean a’Choire Sheasgaich. As was the case in my previous visit in July there were no views so we returned along the path and descended to the bealach with Lurg Mhor. The weather conditions were deteriorating with rain and wind as we ascended Lurg Mhor. At the summit we sought some shelter behind the cairn for lunch. Afterwards we returned to the bealach and commenced our descent crossing numerous small streams and eventually cleared the cloud base before reaching the vehicle track at the west end of Loch Calvie. My map showed it as a path but this is incorrect. The track was followed to Coire na Sorna and onto Bendronaig Bothy where we took another break. Thereafter we commenced the long return route which involved following a vehicle track that climbed over another bealach before the long descent to the car park at the entrance to Attadale Estate on the A890 Strathcarron to Kyle of Lochalsh Road.
Bidein a'Choire Sheasgaich and Lurg Mor15 – 16 July 2007
We met in Inverness on the afternoon of the 15 July and drove to Craig near Achnashellach where we parked in the car park within the forest on the north side of the A890 Achnasheen to Lochcarron Road. The car park had recently been reduced in size and a height barrier installed at the entrance. We left the car park, crossed the main road and the railway line and followed the vehicle track east to the bridge over the River Carron. At the split in the track we took the one heading west through the forest and along the south bank of the River. After over three kilometres we reached the signposted path for Bearneas. The path climbed through the forest and in places long grass on either side of it hid deep trenches. Beyond the forest the path, which was boggy in places, wound its way uphill above Coire Leiridh, where we met a couple descending from the Corbett, Sgurr na Feartaig. The path led to a small bealach south of Carn Mor and then through some rocks to a wide area, which without the path would require some careful navigation. The path descended the side of a stream and some old fence posts to Bearneas Bothy. The bothy, which was situated in an idyllic location, was tidy and larger than expected but I had carried my tent so I pitched it nearby while my clients, Kay and Norman set up in the bothy. We cooked our meal and sat outside in the sun enjoying the weather conditions and the remoteness of the location, until the light breeze disappeared and a few midges decided to join us. The rest of the evening was spent in the bothy chatting and drinking tea and coffee. I was awake early and with the tent door open I watched the clouds change colour to orange as the sun rose. There was no problem from the midges as there was a breeze blowing but the higher hills were cloud covered. After an early breakfast we set off from the bothy and crossed the Abhainn Bhearnais by a few stones I had placed the previous evening. Beyond that the ground was fairly boggy and sections were impossible to cross and required slight deviations. Once the ground started to rise it was a bit drier underfoot. A stream was reached and a suitable crossing point found as it ran through a small gorge. We aimed for a tributary of the stream we had just crossed and followed it into Coire Seasgach and into the cloud. We spotted several deer in the area. In the Coire it was very atmospheric with the mist and rock making everything outsized. We followed the stream, which changed direction several times, until we reached a small lochan. Well the lochan was actually quite difficult to see in the thick cloud. Just beyond the lochan we came across a path that led along a narrowing and rocky ridge to the summit of Bidein a’Choire Sheasgaich where it was fairly windy. There was no advantage remaining at the summit so we continued on the path, which disappeared at times to the bealach with Lurg Mhor where it was very windy and a few minutes later the rain that was to last the rest of the day started. The ascent of Lurg Mhor commenced and before ten in the morning we had reached the summit of our second Munro of the day. Lurg Mhor was in fact Kay’s final mainland Munro while it was Norman’s one hundred and ninety seventh. The return to Bearneas Bothy was by the route of ascent. The cloud base hadn’t changed but the level of the streams had risen. Once back at the bothy we had some lunch and hot drinks before packing our overnight gear. Unfortunately I should have taken my tent down in the morning as it was now very wet. We were about to leave the bothy when a chap walking from Cape Wrath arrived so we spoke to him for a few minutes. He was the only person we saw that day. After around an hour at the bothy we left to return to Craig by the route used the previous day but the path was very wet in places as the rain continued to fall. Kay plans to climb Sgurr nan Gillean next which will leave her with a visit to Mull to complete her Munros. Norman’s next walk was an ascent of the two Munros of the Aonach Eagach.
Mullardoch Munros23 June 2007
This walk involved climbing the four Munros on the north side of Loch Mullardoch and was for the benefit of Tony who had only five Munros left to climb and Kay who had only four mainland Munros to do. Unfortunately for Kay she had already climbed Sgurr na Lapaich and Carn nan Gobhar. Access to these mountains was along the unclassified single track road from Cannich along Glen Cannich to the dam at the east end of Loch Mullardoch. There was ample off-road parking just before the dam. Tony had arranged for Carl the boatman to take us along the Loch to West Benula, which is located at the junction of the streams Allt Coire a’Mhaim and the Allt Socrach. Carl was a bit concerned about the level of the loch as in ten years he had never seen it so low. Apparently Hydro Electric was reducing the level to carry out repairs to a tunnel. On leaving the boat at West Benula, in the rain, the first hurdle was to cross the soft sandy soil, normally under water, before passing the side of the remote West Benula Lodge. I think it is possible to rent this Lodge but there is no access to it other than on foot or by boat. Once beyond the Lodge we walked up the path on the north side of the Allt Coire a’Mhaim, as the first shower of the day ceased. There were a number of cattle grazing near the Allt Socrach so it is good to see that some Estates are using hill ground for these beasts which were mainly cleared from the Highlands in the late eighteenth century to be replaced by sheep. Now the sheep have also gone so that Estates can concentrate on deer. The only downside from the cattle is the deep holes they make on the paths with their hooves. After a couple of kilometres the path disappeared and we crossed the stream, then some peat and boggy ground to the south-east ridge of An Socach. This was followed by a steady climb into the cloud with the corrie edge forcing us further west until we eventually reached the summit trig point where we took our first break. However it was a bit cold on the summit so we didn’t stay long before we headed down An Socach’s east ridge, which changed direction several times and in places dropped steeply. Once at the low point on the ridge we climbed onto the West Top and the South-West Top of An Riabhachan, both Munro Tops before the easy and gentle ascent of An Riabhachan. A further cairn was located further east before the descent of Creagan Toll an Lochain. On this walker’s path I almost stood on a young ptarmigan chick which squealed and ran off down the path and into the cloud. There was no evidence around of its parents or other siblings. On the descent it appeared that the cloud may break and as it was reasonably sheltered we stopped for lunch in anticipation of some views. However we were disappointed as the cloud did the opposite and actually thickened. On finishing lunch we were in the process of packing up when we heard voices and two walkers appeared heading west. The had come up from Innis an Lochiel at the head of Glen Strathfarrar but were only climbing Sgurr na Lapaich and An Riabhachan before returning to their vehicle to get out of the glen before the gate at the entrance to Glen Starthfarrar was closed for the night. At the bealach below Creagan Toll an Lochain we commenced the climb of Sgurr na Lapaich’s south-west ridge. I think this was the hardest part of the day for Tony and Kay who required a few stops en-route to the summit trig point. The descent from this Munro was initially rather awkward as it was over some large boulders but eventually we found a reasonable path which we followed to the Bealach na Cloiche Duibhe. The ascent of Carn nan Gobhar, Tony’s penultimate Munro, was relatively straight forward and we took our final break here before crossing to a slightly lower but more substantial cairn and descended towards Mullach na Maoile. Not long after leaving this second cairn we spotted a mountain hare, a dottrel and its young and a ptarmigan before emerging out of the cloud. Here we saw another couple of walkers who were headed uphill with their backpacking gear. The descent over Mullach na Maoile was relatively easy before we headed own its south-east ridge which was fairly steep and with some rocky outcrops which were not shown on the map. Eventually we reached the rough path along the north shore of Loch Mullardch and walked long it, in the rain, to the dam and the end of the walk. There were several other cars now parked beside the dam, the occupants still out on the hills we had climbed. Tony had arranged for the boat for 8am as according to Carl others had booked the boat at 9 and 10am but from previous experience the earlier the start the better as this walk taking in all four Munros on the north side of Loch Mullardoch is a fairly long day. Tony had his last Munro in Glen Coe planned while Kay had a trip to Skye booked for the following week to try and bag all twelve Munros on the Island, which would leave her with three left to bag.
Meall na Faochaig10 June 2007
This was my day off but once again the forecast was for sunny weather away from the east coast so I decided to get out and make the most of the fine weather. I was hoping for some views as I have never had any in all my visits to the hills of Strathconnon but unfortunately I was to be disappointed. Strathconnon is almost as scenic as the popular Glen Affric but with less tourists. However there are power stations, lots more habitation and even a primary school in the glen. Access to the glen is from Marybank on the A832 along a single track road. I parked my car at the road end to Inverchoran and continued along the road on foot for around four hundred metres to a track that headed uphill. The track later changed direction and ended at a mast near Creag Iucharaidh. As I walked along the top section of this track I came across a lamb and ewe. Nothing unusual in that but unfortunately the ewe was on its back in a dip at the edge of the track and obviously had been there for a while. However it was still alive and bleating as was its lamb so I had to try and right it. Once I got it on its side it managed to stand and staggered off with its lamb. This assistance is obviously not appreciated by farmers and estate owners as they are unaware that some good comes from the Access Code despite their reservations. From the track I headed up a ridge and into the cloud where the visibility was poor. I subsequently reached the west ridge of Meall na Faochaig where there were old fence posts and I followed them towards the summit. There were several peat hags to traverse and old fence wire to avoid before I reached the summit. Well the actual summit was difficult to determine in the mist as there were several small knolls some with a few stones placed on top. I wondered round these knolls before I returned to the start by the ascent route. The weather had not improved but at least the ewe was still upright.
The Sgurrs9 June 2007
I had an unexpected day off due to a cancellation and being based up north and with fine weather forecasted I decided on an ascent of Sgurr Choinnich and Sgurr a’Chaorachain, easier to call them The Sgurrs. On the A890 Achnasheen to Lochcarron road at Craig there was a parking area on the north side of the road, within the forest, which would probably take around a dozen or so vehicles. There were already several cars parked there when I arrived and a couple were getting their mountain bikes ready. Unfortunately my bike was back at home. I set off across the A890 and the railway line and walked along the track to the bridge over the River Carron which I crossed. It was only 9 o’clock but it was already hot with no wind so I needed to cover up as there was no doubt in these conditions I would easily get burnt. The track steepened and although one of the cyclists passed me a couple of times his female companion had to push her cycle uphill. In fact I never saw them after the locked gate higher up. I caught up with a lone female cyclist and her dog at the locked gate. She wasn’t happy as she thought the locked gate was contrary to the Land Reform Scotland Act 2003 but my interpretation is that the access legislation refers to ‘on foot’ only, although the track was a Right of Way. There was a kissing gate at the side which afforded access to those on foot. I offered to assist her to throw her cycle over the six foot gate but she was concerned that she wouldn’t be able to do this on her return. I left her and the two other cyclists with their access problem and continued uphill and then along a more level area to the Pollan Buidhe. I was overtaken by the lone cyclist who had managed to get her cycle through the gate due to a loose slat. At the Pollan Buidhe I crossed the Allt a’Chonais by a twin wire bridge and took the footpath towards the Bealach Bhearnais. A group of four walkers were out in front of me but I left this path and crossed some rough ground and streams to enter Coire Choinnich as I fancied a different approach to these mountains on this trip. I kept to the east of the stream coming out of the corrie as the rocky outcrops were easier to climb round but the going was tough and it was still hot and sunny. I eventually reached the bealach between The Sgurrs and ascended Sgurr Choinnich first. A path led to the summit where I met a couple of guys from Inverness who were out for four days backpacking, walking from Torridon through to Beauly climbing several peaks en-route. While having a snack we were joined by the sole female walker/cyclist and then by a group of four who were climbing Sgurr Choinnich for charity as part of Water Aid. I later left this peak and returned to the bealach and climbed to the summit of Sgurr a’Chaorachain where only part of the trig point was left. I descended the north ridge of Sgurr a’Chaorachain before dropping down to Pollan Buidhe and the walk back out along the track. This was where the cycle would have been of great benefit especially on the descent from the locked gate. However I stopped on a grassy section at the side of the Allt a’Chonais and had a pleasant lunch in the sun before continuing my return to the car park. By the way the black bull that frequents the area at the start and finish of the walk doesn’t seem to be bothered by walkers although it may be different if you are accompanied by your pooch. Unfortunately I had to dump a lot of my photographs of this walk as the lens must have got a spot of water on it.
Moruisg and Sgurr nan Ceannaichean25 May 2007
It was wet as I set off from the lay-by on the A890 Achnasheen to Lochcarron road around a kilometre west of the bridge over the Allt Coire Crubaidh. The parking area was marked on the recent addition of the OS Landranger Map 25. A gate beside the lay-by gave access to a field where since my last visit the path leading to the bridge over the River Carron had been improved. Unfortunately the improvements stopped at the river crossing and thereafter it was, as usual, wet and boggy. A further short distance took me to the railway underpass and ahead the open hillside. Here also the lower section of the hillside was wet and boggy but it improved higher up. It was a steady plod and I stuck to the side of a burn for some interest as there isn’t much going for this approach route other than the nearness to the main road. However as height was gained, the rain ceased, and I had views of the North Achnashellach and Torridon mountains and to distant Loch Maree. The weather was improving with glimpses of the sun but there was a cold wind blowing which was stronger the higher I climbed. I could also see dark clouds forming to the north. I reached the summit cairn of Moruisg where there were good views across to Maoile Lunndaidh. I sought some shelter behind the cairn for coffee and sandwich taking in the views to the south but being aware of the cloud building up behind me. I packed up and was about to set off along the ridge when horizontal snow, light at first, struck the area. I headed over to a smaller cairn but I am not sure which of the two cairns is the highest point. Here I was blasted by snow and a strong wind which made for difficult walking conditions and with reduced visibility it was hard going for around ten minutes. I negotiated to the 854 Point and was heading for the Coire an Tuill Bhain as the snow stopped and the cloud lifted which allowed me to spot a couple of ptarmigan who were trying to detract me from my descent route. From Coire an Tuill Bhain it was a short climb, a bit rocky higher up, onto the summit cairn of Sgurr nan Ceannaichean where I had some good views especially from a small cairn slightly to the south of the summit. Maoile Lunndaidh was white after the short snow storm. I returned down the north-east ridge of Sgurr nan Ceannaichean before heading down its north ridge. This ridge was fairly steep lower down and I had to avoid some rocks before I reached the Altan na Feola. I crossed this stream and followed the path on its north side. It was in poor condition higher up but lower down the path wasn’t as wet and boggy, except in the final stretches around the railway underpass. It was then the short return to the lay-by and my car.
Strathfarrar Four10 May 2007
Access to these Munros is normally from Glen Strathfarrar where a tarred road, apparently private, runs through the Glen to Monar Lodge. At the cottage beside Inchmore there is a locked gate which prevents public access to the Glen except at certain times. I arrived at Inchmore early to meet my clients for the day, Tony and Norman. At precisely nine o’clock, don’t expect to obtain access any earlier, the gatekeeper permitted us access and we drove to just west of Inchvuilt where we left a vehicle before returning down the Glen to east of Loch a’Mhuillidh. Although cloudy it appeared to be breaking up so I was hopeful that the forecast for better weather in the afternoon was a bit out time wise. We set off on a vehicle track up the side of the Allt Coire Mhuillidh. However the track soon became a boggy path as we headed for Sgurr na Ruaidhe’s south west ridge. The ascent of this ridge was a bit of a slog and we soon came to the cloud base and my optimism for an improvement in the weather diminished. The higher we got the windier and colder it became and there were traces of some lying snow. Before reaching the summit cairn we encountered one of those snow showers. After a few minutes at Sgorr na Ruaidhe’s summit we descended to its bealach with Carn nan Gobhar where we had a brief view into the Glen of our approach before climbing back into the clouds. Norman was keeping us up to date with our progress as he had a guide to the time it should take to climb each of the Munros. However the top of Sgorr na Ruaidhe soon put paid to reaching the summit within the stipulated time as it is covered in large boulders which were made slippery by a mixture of rain and sleet. On reaching the cairn we sought some shelter from the cold wind and the showers for a bite to eat before completing the traverse of the boulders and heading for the foot of Sgurr a’Choire Ghlais’s east ridge. A fairly steep climb soon took us to its summit which has a trig point and two large cairns. I have never been able to decide which is the highest point so a visit to all three was necessary. It was cloudy and windy with the occasional rain or hail shower as we headed to the final Munro of the day, Sgurr Fhuar-thuill, over the Munro Top, Creag Ghorm a’Bhealaich. It was unfortunate that visibility was so poor as it would have been an interesting ridge walk if we had had some views. On reaching Sgurr Fhuar-thuill, according to Norman five minutes behind schedule, we dropped to the col with Sgurr na Fearstaig and followed the stalker’s path to Loch Toll a’Mhuic, where we came out of the cloud. Beyond this Loch the path is actually a vehicle track and we followed it to the road in Glen Strathfarrar where we had left a car earlier that day. We exited the Glen at the locked gate, well before the 7pm deadline. previous ascent of Sgurr na Ruaidhe, Carn nan Gobhar and Sgurr a'Choire Ghlais previous ascent of Sgurr Fhuar-thuill
Maoile Lunndaidh24 February 2007
I contacted the Offices of the Mountaineer Council of Scotland in Perth a few days earlier to obtain the number for the combination lock for the gate at Inchmore which would give us access to Glen Strathfarrar. Opposite Inchmore there is a deer farm with lots of hinds in the field. During the drive up Glen Strathfarrar we saw numerous stags, young and old, as this Estate feeds them during the winter. We also saw a lone walker setting off up the track to Sgurr Fhuar-thuill having been conveyed there by taxi. We eventually reached the dam south of Monar Lodge where we parked our vehicle. Parking beyond this point is discouraged. The vehicle track to Monar Lodge was followed before taking the signed diversion route round the property. Here there are some new gates but the Estate still has the barbed wire round the initial gate. This barbed wire readily catches your gear as the bolt to open the gate is rather stiff. Once beyond the Lodge an undulating path was followed for around four kilometres to the Allt a'Choire Fhionnaraich. En route we saw a wren fluttering about below a small heather embankment beside the path. On reaching the stream we followed it towards Corie Fhionnarach where a new footbridge crossed the stream a few meters beyond the one shown on the map. This slight diversion meant a return down the other side of the stream before we rejoined the path on the north side of the Allt a'Chreagain Bhuidhe. This path was followed as it climbed to the Allt Toll a'Choin, crossed the burn and followed its north bank until around 630 metres when it disappeared in the peaty terrain. En route we had spotted some deer and grouse. The weather was mild for the time of year with some light drizzle. There was some low cloud although we did have some views of the lower reaches of Sgurr an Lapaich on the south side of Loch Monar. A compass bearing was followed as we climbed more steeply into the cloud and ascended Creag Toll a'Choin where we spotted a couple of pairs of ptarmigan. Earlier we disturbed some snow buntings. There was very little snow on this ridge but there was a cornice which showed signs of collapse. We followed this ridge to a knoll marked by a cairn and took another bearing to the summit of Maoile Lunndaidh. There was evidence of a few bootprints in the patchy snow and in places there were traces of a path. It was an easy ascent to the summit cairn with very little height difference compared to the knoll. However there was a cold wind blowing so rather than stopping for lunch we descended the south-east ridge. Around 700 metres we stopped for a break with brief views into Gleann Fhiodhaig as the cloud swirled around. Afterwards we headed across some rough and boggy ground to the path beside the Allt Toll a'Choin used earlier in the day. This was followed by a long walk back to the start following the paths used on the outward route. Once again we spotted the wren which kept in front of us for several hundred meters as we headed along the north shore of Loch Monar. Between April and November the locked gate at Inchmore is manned by the gatekeeper and the access hours are a bit restrictive at times especially as you cannot get access till 9am. The advantage of this trip in February meant that there was no pressure to get off the hill and out of the Glen before the gatekeeper finished for the day.
Sgorr na Diollaid22 October 2006
Two lady clients joined me for this walk which had to be reasonably short as one of the ladies required to return, by bus, to the central belt in the afternoon. I selected the Corbett, Sgorr na Diollaid as it was a half day walk and if the weather was fine there are good views from the summit. The start of the walk was on the unclassified road from the village of Cannich to the dam at Loch Mullardoch at the point in Glen Cannich where the road crosses to the north side of the River Cannich and where a track leads to Muchrachd Farm. Initially we crossed some wet ground and climbed through long heather there being no path other than a few animal tracks. Unfortunately the clear weather that I had hoped for didn’t materialise and we were soon into the cloud. The two ladies didn’t seem to mind as they were busy chatting most of the time. There were several roaring stags and I later spotted a group of hinds and a stag before they ran off into the cloud. We continued heading north round several rocky outcrops and eventually came to the rocky summit which necessitated some easy scrambling. We sought some shelter for a snack and it appeared that the cloud may break up but this did not happen so we did not have the views I had hoped for. The descent was uneventful and lower down we came out of the cloud and returned to our vehicle in Glen Cannich and the lady caught her bus south.
Maoile Lunndaidh20 August 2006
This Munro was planned for the Sunday as no stalking was permitted that day and during August, Sunday access to the private road up Glen Strathfarrar was from 9am till 8pm which would be sufficient time to climb this mountain and get out of the Glen. Although I had climbed Maoile Lunndaidh on previous occasions this was my first ascent from Glen Strathfarrar although I had climbed the nearby Corbett, An Sidhean, using part of the approach route. I was at the locked gate at Inchmore in Glen Strathfarrar just before 9am and while waiting for the gate keeper to appear I met a fellow running club member who was there to climb the Corbett Beinn a'Bha'ach Ard. Once permitted access to Glen Strathfarrar I drove to the dam at Loch Monar where I parked my car. Although the road goes as far as Monar Lodge signs warn of no parking beyond the dam. We set off on foot along the road to Monar Lodge and then the path that ran along the north shore of Loch Monar as far as the Allt a'Choire Fhionnaraich. The path was in good condition, albeit slightly undulating. There were good views down Loch Monar despite the light rain showers we encountered. At the Allt a'Choire Fhionnaraich we crossed it by a footbridge which obviously replaced an old bridge and was a few metres further north. (This should not be mistaken for the bridge nearer Loch Monar which gives access along the lochside). We took a short break at the footbridge but not for long as the midges were a nuisance so we set off over some rough ground to reach the stalker's path that lead from the old bridge. This path, which was still in good condition, initially followed the north bank of the Allt a'Chreagain Bhuidhe then over moorland and up the side of the Allt Toll a'Choin. The path then became a bit boggy and ended in the heather and bog. We spotted some mountain blackbirds (ring ouzels) as we climbed onto the south-east ridge of Maoile Lunndaidh where the going was a lot easier on short vegetation with a few stony sections. The rain was now heavier and the cloud had covered the summit as we headed up the ridge to the cairn. Near the summit we spotted around ten ptarmigan, which was probably the largest group I had ever come across. As the summit was in cloud there was little point in walking round the head of the corrie so we returned by our route of ascent. The weather cleared on the descent and the wind dropped to allow the midges to be out in force as we walked along the shore of Loch Monar. However there were some fantastic views down the loch, it was just a pity we couldn't stop long enough to enjoy them. On returning to the car we drove back to Inchmore with around two hours to spare until the gate keeper finished work. I am not sure what would happen if we were late but I don't intend to find out.
Mullardoch Four29 April 2006
The boat from the dam at Loch Mullardoch in Glen Cannich was due to head up the Loch at 8.30am and we arrived in time to see the boat being launched. It was full and it was a pleasant sail in calm and sunny conditions to East Benula Lodge about two thirds of the way up the Loch. This is far superior to walking along the Lochside on a muddy and sometimes indistinct path which takes around two hours, as I have walked this route before. On alighting from the boat we followed the path on the north side of the Allt Coire a'Mhaim before fording this stream, crossing some peat bogs and onto the south-east ridge of An Socach. It was a steady climb on this twisting ridge but as we gained height the views of the surrounding mountains became more extensive. Higher up we crossed some snow fields and noted how dangerous the cornices were as they were cracked and ready to collapse. Just before arriving at the summit a chap, who had come up from Iron Lodge, was headed towards the summit cairn. He was one of probably around thirty people we passed on these remote hills that day. After a short stop at the summit to take in the views and some food we descended the snow covered east ridge of An Socach and climbed the Munro Tops of An Riabhachan before strolling along the level ridge to the actual summit. Beyond that there was a small knoll, with a cairn, where a few walkers were gathered. We continued to the narrow ridge of Creagan Toll an Lochan which was still covered in some deep snow so some care was required and once again the ice axes were in use. Once at the bealach between An Riabhachan and Sgurr na Lapaich we had another fuel stop taking in more food and liquid before the ascent of Sgurr na Lapaich. We were able to avoid most of the snow until nearer the summit, where again there were several walkers surrounding the cairn and trig point. I was aware that the initial descent from this summit would be a slight problem as it is narrow and was full of snow but once we were round the first rocky section we were able to descend through the deep soft snow. Occasionally it was too deep and we had to wriggle our way out. On reaching the bealach the ground was free of snow and it was a steady climb to the summit of Carn nan Gobhar. It was now getting late so we crossed over some more snow fields to the bealach between Carn nan Gobhar and Creag Dubh before descending to the path beside the Allt Mullardoch. The path was wet and boggy in many places and it took a while to get back to the north shore of Loch Mullardoch. The final stretch along the Loch's shore was on muddy paths through long heather but after nearly twelve hours we eventually returned to our cars parked beside the dam. It was the end of a pleasant but tough day on the hills with some spectacular views with the higher mountains still covered in snow.
Sgurr Fhuar-thuill23 April 2006
It was the this time last year when, with the same client, I tackled the four Strathfarrar Munros from east to west. However due to the snow conditions, which slowed us down, we only managed to climb three of them. We were now back to bag the final one, Sgurr Fhuar-thuill. Access to the Glen is restricted by a locked gate at Inchmore which is only opened by the Gatekeeper at certain times, (see The Mountaineering Council of Scotland for details) so this was our first obstacle. We arrived minutes before the nine o'clock opening time, and stopped at the gate to wait for our permit. The 'friendly' Gatekeeper came out and asked me to move my vehicle as I was obstructing anyone leaving the Glen. I would have moved if that occurred but to prevent any argument I reversed clear of the gate as she returned to her house. She later reappeared, made some comment about stopping outside her house, gave me my permit and opened the gate to allow us through. So beware, stop before reaching the house or you upset the Gatekeeper. I drove up this scenic and obviously very quiet Glen to around a kilometre west of Braulen Lodge where there is ample parking. We then headed up the track beside the Allt Toll a'Mhuic which has some lovely waterfalls. The vehicle track changed into a path and crossed the Allt Toll a'Mhuic, which was in spate, so we decided to walk round Loch Toll a'Mhuic and rejoin the track further north. We even managed a short break at a sandy section of the Loch which was sheltered from the wind. There was a lot of avalanche debris and we heard a roar and saw snow and a few boulders tumble down the side of Sgurr na Muice. It made us more aware of the dangers within the corrie and to make sure we took a suitable course. We climbed towards the path and found traces of one where it crossed another stream but it followed this stream as it headed into the Corrie. The path on the map doesn't but due to extensive snow cover it was easier to follow the stream. We soon lost this path in the snow which was soft and deep and hid everything including the stream. We were being caught by another walker but when he reached the snow he also slowed down and followed the trail I was making. The walking became very slow as the snow wouldn't hold my weight and I never knew how deep it was. It was also difficult to work out the snow banks and drifts due to the lighting. Once beyond the stream I headed towards where the path should be and the walker behind changed direction and headed towards some hanging cornices, which was a bit of concern to me especially with all the avalanche debris in the area. It was hard work climbing through the steep snow below Sgurr na Fearstaig but we eventually reached the ridge east of this mountain as the cloud descended and it started to snow. It was also windy. We headed towards Sgurr Fhuar-thuill but the weather got slightly worse and as everything round about was now white it was very difficult to see as visibility was now almost zero. Some rocks were located which helped vision and we eventually reached the summit cairn, which was surrounded by drifting snow or ice. We commenced the return towards Sgurr na Feartaig and met the other hill walker following our tracks. He did not have an axe and was just using his poles. Shortly thereafter the cloud cleared and we had some good views. It was decided that we would return down the south ridge of Sgurr na Feartaig and over Sgurr na Muice rather than go back by the ascent route. This route gave us some fantastic views of the snow clad mountains and of the contorted cornices which the other hill walker had come through. I could see his boot prints but I wasn't going to risk going too close to the edge to see how he managed to climb through the cornice. The walk over Sgurr na Muice was sometimes over bare ground or some snow but it wasn't very deep and gave reasonable walking. Once over Sgurr na Muice it was a fairly steep descent avoiding some rocky outcrops and lower down we disturbed some deer, the first we had seen on these mountains. Once below the rocks we crossed over some wet and boggy ground to the track used in the morning and an easy walk back to the start. My client found the walk very tough and said it had been one of the hardest days, condition wise, that she had experienced and she has completed over 230 Munros.
Bac an Eich29 January 2006
The start of this walk was from near Inverchoran in Glen Strathconon where there is limited parking at the side of the road. From here a walk to Inverchoran, with a slight diversion to avoid the farmhouse leads to the vehicle track up Gleann Chorainn. This track was followed until the end of the forest where we crossed the stream and headed up towards Loch Toll Lochain watched by deer on the ridges above us. Once we reached the gullied stream flowing out of the Loch we followed it upstream until we found a suitable crossing point. From here frozen boggy ground was crossed to the foot of Sgurr Toll Lochain. A steep climb ensued on a lightly snow covered surface avoiding several rocky outcrops. From the summit of Sgurr Toll Lochain we had to negotiate some peat hags before the walking became easier as we headed to the cloud covered summit of Bac an Eich. There were no views from this summit so we set off down the ridge above An Leth-chreag before crossing to the north side of the stream to avoid some deep gorges. At this point the cloud broke and the sun came out. Unfortunately it was a bit too late for us although it did enhance the views for the rest of the walk. We subsequently found a vehicle track and followed it down to two ruined houses at Corriefoot, which were probably part of the Highland Clearances. From Corriefoot we crossed the bridge at Corrievuic and found somewhere in the sun to have lunch. After lunch we walked along the vehicle track to Scadroy where we joined the public road along the north shore of Loch Beannacharain with its reflections of the forest and hills on its mirrored surface. From the end of the Loch it was only a short distance back to our car near Inverchoran.
Sgurr na Feartaig28 January 2006
We set off from Craig on the A890 Auchnasheen to Lochcarron Road, crossed the railway line and along the track parallel to it avoiding the black bull. The track then headed uphill beside the side of the Allt a'Chonais, where we passed a backpacker, the only person we saw all day. Once higher up we used the footbridge, which has slightly awkward slats, to cross the stream and join the stalker's path that headed up towards Na Meallanan Buidhe. This path was in good condition but we had to avoid some icy patches, especially higher up where a light covering of snow concealed the ice. I popped out to the Corbett Top, at 819 metres where I had some good views of the Torridon mountains and the north Achnashellach hills. I rejoined the path beside the frozen Loch Sgurr na Feartaig as cloud was floating around the summit of Sgurr na Feartaig. As we approached the summit the path disappeared under some old snow fields but we eventually arrived at the summit with some limited views due to the cloud cover. We continued west along the ridge and spotted a couple of ptarmigan which moved onto a nearby rock which made a good photograph. The views of the summits of the surrounding Munros were covered in cloud but the view west over Lochcarron to the Islands of Skye and Rum were terrific and the view slightly further south including the Island of Eigg was awesome with a bright orange glow in the distance. We continued along the ridge over two further Corbett Tops before reluctantly commencing the descent into Coier Leiridh. This path wasn't in such good condition with a couple of steep rocky and icy sections which we had to avoid. Once into Coire Leiridh we followed the twisting path into the forest just above Lair. This was followed by a three and a half kilometre walk through the forest mainly in the dark. At the end of the day we had the bull to pass but it was dark so thankfully we never saw it before the railway crossing and the end of a stunning day on the hills.
An Sidhean27 January 2006
I had arranged earlier in the week with the Mountaineering Council of Scotland for the number of the combination lock for the gate at Inchmore to enable access to Glen Strathfarrar. I was surprised and a bit annoyed when I arrived at the gate to find the combination lock I required wasn't amongst the numerous other locks that secure this gate. I was weighing up my options when a lorry driver, who was going up the Glen, arrived and permitted me entry and saved any embarrassment with my client. On the drive along the Glen there were well over one hundred stags at various locations feeding from piles of silage and this took my client's mind off my earlier problem with the gate. At Monar Dam we parked up as it was very obvious from the signs that we weren't welcome beyond this point, well not in the car. It was cold, frosty and a bit cloudy when we set off along the track to Monar Lodge, followed the signposted route round the property and towards and through a small gorge. Beyond this gorge everything was still and silent, the only noise being from a waterfall miles away. We also had views of the mountains at the head of Loch Monar including the remote Lurg Mor, although the summits were covered in cloud. The path above the north shore of Loch Monar was followed to Gleann Dubh where another path heads uphill towards our destination, An Sidhean. Once higher up we headed along the ridge Mullach a'Gharbh-leathaid disturbing some hinds in the distance. Here there were traces of snow and there was now a cold wind. What a difference to lower down. On approaching the summit we spotted a lone hind through the cloud. On the summit the cloud was trying to break up a bit but as it was cold we headed off to the bealach beside Clach a' Chomharraidh and climbed over the north shoulder of Meall Dubh na Caoidhe and out of the cloud. This was followed by a descent to a stalker's path that led to the Allt a' Choire Dhomhain and back to Loch Monar and from there we retraced our steps to the Dam and the car. During the drive out of the Glen we again saw lots of stags feeding and also spotted some feral goats. The gate wasn't a problem on this occasion as I used the combination numbers, for another lock, supplied to me by the lorry driver.
Strathfarrar Munros14 April 2005We arrived early at the locked gate at Inchmore to gain access to Glen Strathfarrar. The gate keeper allowed us through a few minutes early and we drove past large numbers of deer to just before Loch a'Mhuillidh. Leaving the car we walked up the track to the small dam on the Allt Coire Mhuillidh. We then followed a boggy and wet path to the stream flowing down from Sgurr na Ruaidhe. The stream was crossed and we climbed the south-west ridge of Sgurr na Ruaidhe, which was also wet and boggy in places. It appeared that the weather was going to improve as the sun shone on the east corrie of Sgurr a'Choire Ghlais. However it was only a glimpse as it clouded over and later started to snow. A steady climb took us to the summit cairn of Sgurr na Ruaidhe followed by a descent of the snow clad north-west ridge in poor visibility. On reaching the bealach it had stopped snowing but the low cloud and snow covered surface made it difficult to see. Beyond the bealach we climbed up to the east ridge of Carn nan Gobhar where it started to snow again as we reached the boulder strewn summit. Here walking was rather awkward with the soft snow hiding some of the boulders. The next section of the walk required several navigation legs to reach the foot of the north-east ridge. It was then a steep climb up the snow covered ridge towards the summit of Sgurr a'Choire Ghlais. Progress was slow as my client was tiring in these winter conditions and it started to snow again reducing visibility even further. The last section of the climb was over a large snow bank where it was difficult to make out what was snow and what was fresh air. We visited both large cairns and the trig point. It was decided not to continue the walk and to descent the south ridge of Sgurr a'Choire Ghlais. The descent was pleasant down soft snow and lower down we had good views of the corniced ridge. North of Meall a'Gheur-fheadain we dropped down to Coire Mhuillidh, walked round a large area of peat hags before reaching the Allt Coire Mhuillidh. It was flowing fairly fast but we needed to cross it to reach the path on the other side. My client opted for the easier option of wading the stream rather than boulder hopping. Once across the stream we followed it back to the start and the drive out of Glen Strathfarrar. We reached the locked gate with ten minutes to spare as the gate keeper finishes work at 6pm.
Re-visit Strathfarrar28 March 2005The cloud base was a bit higher than the previous day as we parked near the locked gate at Inchmore in Glen Strathfarrar. We walked up the road to the power station at Culligran, which is undergoing some work. It appeared that the power station was in fact being decommissioned. From here we followed a track along the side of the Neaty Burn and through a birch wood. On clearing the trees we commenced the climb of the south ridge of Beinn a'Bhaach Ard. It was an undulating ridge and we had to avoid rocky outcrops, peat hags and bogs as we slowly climbed this hill. The client had obviously become fed up with my conversation and dropped back to be with her own thoughts and plans probably for retribution, but only time will tell. Higher up we entered low cloud and the wind picked up so it was a slow plod to the summit trig point. This was my client's 49th Corbett and this was significant to her but I am not allowed to divulge the reason. However some of her friends will be able to work it out. The plan for this walk was to continue to Sgurr a'Phollain and pick up the path back to Inchmore but as this meant walking into a head wind it was decided to return by our ascent route. There was no improvement in the weather and we were well down the hill before we found some shelter for lunch. Afterwards we continued the descent to the track beside the Neaty Burn and the walk back to Inchmore.
Back to Strathconnon27 March 2005This was the Easter weekend and I had been booked to take clients to the Grey Corries but unfortunately they had cancelled. My regular Corbett bagging client stepped in and kindly booked me for some Corbetts around the Inverness area. We parked beside the old church just south of Strathanmore in Strathconnon and commenced the climb up towards Creag Ruadh. It was a dull and damp morning and within about fifteen minutes of the start we were in low cloud. Visibility was probably at a maximum of thirty metres as we climbed steeply avoiding some rocky outcrops. Once we reached the cairn of Creag Ruadh we followed the ridge along towards the first Corbett of the day Meallan nan Uan. It was very windy on this ridge and together with some rain and the poor visibility it wasn't ideal hill walking weather. Just below the summit we spotted the only wildlife of the day, three ptarmigan, one whose plumage had almost changed back to the dark shade for summer. The descent was the north-west ridge as far as Carnan Fuar and then a change of direction to climb Sgurr a' Mhuilinn. Here we had to avoid snow patches but their extent is unknown to us due to the poor visibility. We reached the ridge and then easy walking to the summit cairn where there are still traces of the old trig point. We didn't stay there long and headed along and then down the south-east ridge. The wind was strong here and it was hard work walking into it. However once lower down the wind eased. On reaching leveller ground we headed across to the Allt an t-Srathain Mhoir which we followed to near the start. After over five hours navigation in poor conditions we suddenly emerged out of the cloud and for the last fifteen minutes or so we could see where we were going as we headed across to the car.
Bealach Bhearnais15 March 2005It was a wet and miserable morning when we set off from Craig in Glen Carron. The overnight snow had turned to rain lower down so everything was very wet. We crossed the railway line at what appears to be a legal crossing point and followed the track through the forest and up the side of the Allt a'Chonais. The lying snow was wet but it didn't cause any problems at this time. Higher up, and at a more level section of the track deer, were obviously on the search for food. Prior to the track turning to head east we followed the path down to the Allt a'Chonais. Here the snow was a bit deeper with plenty of slush. We reached the wire bridge which was to be the crossing point. Well it was either use the bridge or get totally soaked wading the stream. My clients opted to take the drier route so after some encouragement they crossed the stream using the wire bridge. Once on the other side we were initially able to find the line of the path but as the snow became deeper this wasn't possible. The best line of ascent had to be found but this frequently led to boots and legs disappearing down peat holes. We weren't getting off with dry feet on this walk. Progress became pretty slow but at long last we reached the Bealach Bhearnais. It was at this point that one of my clients, who wasn't happy in these conditions, decided he had had enough and wanted to return to the shelter of his car. The intention had been to climb the Munros Sgurr Choinnich and Sgurr a'Chaorachain so that was the end of that plan. The return was by the ascent route with the rain becoming heavier and the streams quickly filling up with rain water and snow melt. By mid-afternoon we had returned to our starting point and off to dry out and a hot shower. Attadale12 September 2004On a wet and windy Sunday morning I arrived at the car park just off the A890 near Attadale House with the intention of bagging the remote Corbett, Beinn Dronaig. Attadale Estate obviously try to make hillwalkers welcome with the 'walker's car park', notices saying that hillwalkers are welcome and they don't mind bicycles being used on the track as far as Bendronaig Lodge. There is also a large map of the area with recommended walking routes which the Estate would like you to use during the stalking season. I set off on my mountain bike for Bendronaig Lodge, past the holiday cottages at Strathan, where the tarred section of the track ceases. The rough track remains fairly level to the bridge over the River Attadale then climbs up the side of the forest and rises from sea level at the car park to around 300 metres, so in my case I pushed my bike most of the way uphill. It is hard going as the track is fairly steep in sections and it is here you wonder if it would be easier just to go for the long walk in. Once at the high point, the track gradually dropped to the Black Water where it crossed an Iron Bridge before heading for Bendronaig Lodge. There are two buildings, one for stalkers and the bothy open to walkers. They are both maintained by the Estate and the bothy is in excellent condition, wind and water tight with four rooms, three of which have a fireplace. There is an inside loo and sink although water has to be carried up from the river. It was a great place to stop for a cup of coffee before I set off on foot up Coire na Sorna. For those who like views the Estate has even left a bottle of 'Windolene' so that you can clean the windows. The weather had improved on the cycle in and the sun even tried to break through the clouds. From a high point in Coire na Sorna it was a steady climb up to the summit of Beinn Dronaig. Unfortunately as I approached the summit the cloud base lowered, it rained heavily and was very windy. On reaching the summit trig point, I touched the summit and immediately headed back to Bendronaig Lodge for my lunch. It was pleasant sitting at a table in the wilds having something to eat. However my thoughts were on the long cycle back to Attadale. The cycle back was into the wind but with a bit of cycling and pushing I reached the high point on the pass. From here it was downhill, but not as easy as it sounds. The steep sections on the descent were rather tricky but once these were over it was an enjoyable descent back to the car and another new Corbett visited.
Weekend in Kintail2 - 4 July 2004I had a day off on the Friday but had to move my base from Crianlarich to Ratagan, so I only had a half day to collect another Corbett. I settled on my final Corbett in Glen Elchaig, Sguman Coinntich, mossy peak. I left my car in the car park near the turn off for Camas-luinne and walked up the tarred road to Killilan. The start of the path up the north side of the Allt a'Choire Mhoir was very difficult to find due to the height of the bracken, which in places was about five feet high. I went through the wood and joined the track higher up. The OS Map shows this as a path but it is in fact a track and climbs to near the Bealach Mhic Bheathan. Once higher up I left this track and climbed to the summit of Sguman Coinntich, avoiding several rocky outcrops. I found some shelter on the north side of this hill to have a late lunch and enjoy the views. To the west, the tops of the Cuillins were in cloud but to the north the Lurg Mhor Munros, the Strathfarrar Four, An Socach, An Riabhachan and the other two Glen Elchaig Corbetts were clear of cloud. To the east the Glen Affric Munros, including Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan and the Munros on the north side of Glen Shiel were all visible. I would have liked to stay longer but the cloud in the west was threatening to head in my direction so I set off down the south ridge back to the track I used on the upward route. I was hoping that for once this summer I would have a dry day but I did get some spots of rain before reaching the track. I found the path down to Killilan but it was very overgrown and in places difficult to follow so no wonder I had a problem at the start. The next day I was out with Laila, who is a Munro Bagger, and wanted to be guided along the South Glen Shiel Ridge which would boost her tally of Munros by seven. Laila doesn't drive so she had travelled by bus from Edinburgh to Shiel Bridge and I collected her from her overnight accommodation. We drove to the finish of the walk where I parked my car and we waited for the Portree to Glasgow bus, which took us up the glen to the Cluanie Inn. From the Cluanie Inn we walked along the tarred road, which led to Tomdoun before Loch Loyne was created for Hydro Electric power. We disturbed three hinds who were now in their summer coats but they didn't run far so I suspect they had young nearby. Once beyond the highest point on the road we took the stalker's path up Creag a' Mhaim, crag of the large rounded hill. We had donned waterproofs earlier due to some rain but the climb up to this Munro was very warm and the sun even tried to appear so I had to remove them. However on reaching this summit a cold wind was blowing and another rain shower was spreading in. The next Munro, Druim Shionnach, the ridge of the foxes, was soon reached as was its South Top. Beyond it we found some shelter for lunch before climbing Aonach air-Chrith, the shacking height, and we met four males who were only doing the eastern section of the ridge as they were late in starting due to a drinking session the previous evening. They were anxious to get back to the Cluanie Inn for a pint. The descent from Aonach air-Chrith is rocky and narrow in places and met members of the RAF Mountain Rescue Team who were on a weekend training exercise. They were walking the ridge in the opposite direction. The next and fourth Munro was Maol Chinn-dearg, the bald redheaded hill, followed by Sgurr an Doire Leathain, the peak of the broad thicket. We had been reasonably fortunate with the weather as the cloud and showers quickly passed through. However on reaching the sixth Munro, Sgurr an Lochain, the peak of the little loch, the cloud was down and it was starting to rain. This rain got heavier and heavier until it was bouncing off our gear. The path was like a minor stream as we climbed the seventh and final Munro of the day, Creag nan Damh, the rock of the stag. From here we continued west to the Bealach Duibh Leac. En-route a family of ptarmigan was perched on a rock and took flight as we approached. A couple, the male was in his shorts, passed us and they were also soaked. These were the only people we met walking the ridge in the same direction as ourselves. On a Saturday in July you would expect the ridge to be busy but walkers were obviously put off by the poor weather we are experiencing this summer. I was a bit concerned about the amount of rain that had fallen as we had two rivers to cross prior to getting back to the car. The descent from this bealach was along a twisting path which was very wet and slippery and extreme care was required. The Allt Coire Toiteil was reached but thankfully the crossing wasn't too difficult although the stepping stones were submerged. The path continued down the east side of the stream which becomes the Allt Mhalagain. However at the junction of this stream and the Allt Coire Mhalagain we had to cross the former. Laila was a bit apprehensive due to a bad experience at a river crossing. However we stuck together and crossed the river without removing any of our gear as we were already wet although it depends on your definition of wet as we were absolutely soaked after the river crossing. Once across the river it was a matter of metres to the main road and the car. It had taken us 11.5 hours to complete the walk but well done Laila for completing the ridge in one outing. Reference books indicate that it is only possible for fit walkers to do all seven Munros in a day. The next day Laila wanted to climb A'Chralaig, the creel, and Mullach Fraoch-choire, the top of the heather corrie, on the north side of Glen Shiel, so once again I collected her from her accommodation and we drove to east of the Cluanie Inn beside the An Caorann Mor. From there we climbed steeply up onto the south-east ridge of A'Chralaig and to its large summit cairn. As we ascended the low cloud started to rise and from the cairn we had some views. The next part of the walk took us along the north ridge to the Munro Top, Stob Coire na Cralaig, and we met a chap who had come up from the Alltbeithe Youth Hostel where he had spent a couple of nights. We then walked along the narrowing ridge between this Top and south ridge of Mullach Fraoch-choire. The climb of this south ridge involves some careful footwork on the narrow paths that by-pass the pinnacles, some of which are collapsing. On reaching the summit of Mullach Fraoch-choire good views were had while we ate our lunch. We returned along the narrow path and came across a Ring Ouzel (mountain blackbird). It was obviously a bit concerned about our presence and wouldn't fly off, so I can only presume it had a nest nearby. On returning to the Munro Top, Stob Coire na Cralaig, we descended its west ridge to reach the wet and boggy path that runs through to the Youth Hostel. This track was followed southwards back to the start of the day's walk. Laila was very tired after the previous day's effort but was determined to finish. She has now climbed 179 Munros and hopes to finish them in 18 months or so when she becomes 65. Well done Laila and I hope you are successful.
Glen Elchaig13 June 2004There are three Corbetts located on the north side of Glen Elchaig and today I planned to tackle the two remotest ones with the use of a cycle. I set off on my cycle from Killilan and headed up Glen Elchaig with several stops to push the cycle on the inclines. On reaching Carnach I left the cycle and continued along the track to Iron Lodge and took the path which runs across the south side of Aonach Buidhe. The weather wasn't very promising as it was windy with cloud shrouding the mountains. I climbed up the south ridge onto the summit of Aonach Buidhe disturbing a large herd of deer en-route. The weather was abysmal higher up with driving rain, strong winds and low cloud with poor visibility. The next section meant remaining on bearings as I descended to the path which leads from Iron Lodge to the bothy at Maol-bhuidhe. Visibility was slightly clearer down here and I located the stalker's path on the east side of Faochaig. The climb up this path took me back into the poor weather conditions and onto the north ridge of Faochaig. I followed this ridge to the summit cairn. The descent was reasonably straight forward as it just required me to head south to the streams before picking up another stalker's path which took me back to Carnach. Here I was able to have a very late lunch sitting at the side of Loch na Leitreach out of the bad weather I had experienced for most of the day. The final section was the return cycle down Glen Elchaig, avoiding all the sheep and lambs, to Killilan.
Glen Cannich16 February 2004The weather was fine so prior to returning home I decided to bag another Corbett. This one was only a half day of effort and would allow me to return home in the afternoon. I drove from the village of Cannich up Glen Cannich towards Loch Mullardoch. At Muchrachd I parked my car and alighted into a very still and pleasant morning. Two stags were fighting close by and were unperturbed by my presence. Sheep gathered round me hoping that I was about to feed them. Once organised I headed up the steep hillside to the summit of Sgorr na Diollaid where a little scrambling was required to reach the top. A coffee break taking in the views of the surrounding mountains was far superior to those poor soles taking their break surrounded by four walls in a canteen or at their workstation. Oh it’s great to be on top of a mountain on a fine day. Once I had my fill of views I headed over to Sgorr na Diollaid’s West Top before descending back to my car and the end of a great weekend Corbett Bagging.
Glen Strathfarrar16 July 2003I had a day out in Strathfarrar in midweek. I headed for Loch Monar dam. I walked along the side of the loch before climbing An Sidhean. Just before the summit six stags, of various ages, walked across my path before sensing my presence and running off. These stags were the best of pals but that won’t last as October approaches and the rut begins.
Strathconnon15 July 2003My next trip was to Strathconnon where I climbed the Corbett Bac an Eich and the Graham Beinn Mheadhoin. Prior to doing so I consulted with the Gamekeeper at Inverchoran but he wasn’t very helpful and gave the impression that he wasn’t happy with me walking across his land even though he wasn’t stalking there. On approaching the Trig Point on Beinn Mheadhoin I came across two hinds and a fawn resting in one of the several hollows there. The hinds rose immediately and ran off downhill. However the young fawn stood up and we stared at each other for several seconds before it too ran off downhill. These few seconds are one of the reasons I walk and work in the hills and the memory of this fawn will remain with me for some time. I thought myself lucky to get so close to the fawn but I got even closer to a family of grouse on my descent from Beinn Mheadhoin. Two chicks rose as I approached them and I was surprised that there were no adult birds taking off. I stopped in my tracks and on looking down into the heather I saw a third chick cowering in the heather and blending well with its surroundings. It then decided to fly off and the two adults rose from nearby and the family flew off. Another great nature experience.
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