This walk takes you from the shores of Loch Linnhe into the very heart of the Ardgour hills. Beinn na h-Uamha, like many of its neighbours, is a fine but rough and rocky hill, and from the top there are grand views of nearby Sgurr Dhonuill and Garbh Bheinn.
Summary
The ascent is pathless, very rough, rocky and rugged. The route involves a crossing of the River Gour which would be impossible in spate.
Terrain
NM978629
Grid ref
16.5km/10.25 miles
Distance
Grade
NB. Hillwalking when there is snow on the hills requires an ice-axe, crampons and winter skills and experience.
Start
Maps
Users'
rating
Public transport
1. About 4km west of Corran a narrow branch road leaves the A861 to Sallachan. There is space to park just to the north of the bridge. Begin the walk by crossing it, turning right through a gate on the far side where a sign indicates the right of way to Strontian, and follow the rough track. As you reach Loch nan Ghabhar the glen opens up into a wide strath. A rocky knoll on the other side of the loch is the location of a vitrified fort.
2. Carry on past the ruined cottage of Tigh Ghlinneghabhar, and past a point where the tree-lined river diverges from the path. When the river swings back close again, leave the path and ford the river. Care is needed and the crossing could be difficult or even impossible in spate. On the far side head north towards the base of Beinn na h-Uamha's southeast ridge. The section on either side of the river can be very boggy. Climb up a rough steep slope to the left of a little declivity, then continue over and around little gabbro knolls to the foot of Stob an Uillt Dharaich. Here you have the choice of scrambling directly up this rocky promontory or contouring round to the right before heading steeply up it.
3. Soon easier ground is reached, but another steep and rocky climb is needed before the summit is finally reached. Beinn na h-Uamha is an excellent viewpoint; it just scrapes its Corbett status. Beinn na h-Uamha offers great views of the nearby better-known and higher peaks of Garbh Bheinn to the south and Sgurr Dhonuill to the west, whilst, if the visibility is good, the serried peaks of Morar and Knoydart rise to the north.
4. Retrace your steps for about 500 metres and then head south into Coire an Uillt Dharaich. Cross a tributary and then descend to the W of the burn, keeping to a little ridge that borders the corrie for most of the descent.
5. Continue south from the bottom of this ridge across the boggy floor of the glen to find a suitable crossing place back over the River Gour. Climb up some rough heathery ground to join the path and follow it back down the glen to your starting point, enjoying superb views of the Ballachulish hills.
This walk was contributed by Doug Tulloch
Have you found an error or is any information wrong or missing?
Please let us know by using the error report form.
Route profile
