A steep but rewarding walk to the summit of Biod an Fhithich (Point of the Ravens) where there are great views of the Saddle and the Forcan ridge and also down Loch Duich. The option of descending along the ridge to Shiel Bridge to make a longer and more strenuous route is also described.
Summary
Clear and well built path which climbs steeply to the col, from here the rest of the ascent is mainly pathless over rough ground.
Terrain
NG965146
Grid ref
6.5km/4 miles
Distance
Grade
NB. Hillwalking when there is snow on the hills requires an ice-axe, crampons and winter skills and experience.
Users'
rating
There is a reasonable bus service along the A87, served by Citilink buses from Glasgow
and Inverness.
Open Traveline Scotland
Public transport
1. Park at the layby on the north side of the A87(T) about 1km east of Achnagart quarry. Cross the road (carefully) and walk east along it for a short distance until the start of the stalkers path is reached. Go through the gate and follow the excellent path uphill and it winds up towards the col between Biod an Fhithich and Meallan Odhar.
2. There is a long traverse, at a steady gradient before the col is reached. From here there are excellent views of the Saddle. Looking down into Coire Caol there are often large numbers of deer. From the col turn right and head across rough, and in places boggy, ground to start the final ascent of Biod an Fhithich.
3. Keep to the main ridge where there are faint paths in places. The route crosses a couple of slabby sections of rock and soon reaches the small summit cairn. At 644 metres, Biod an Fhithich has impressive views up and down Glen Shiel and straight across to the Saddle and the imposing Forcan ridge. This walk can be combined with the Saddle by returning to the col and continuing on the main path from there.
4. The time and grade given for this walk assume a return by the outward route. However it is possible to descend for keen hillwalkers to continue Shiel Bridge via the ridge. This route is best if you can arrange transport from Shiel Bridge to avoid the walk back along the busy A87. To take this route, continue in a north-west direction straight down the ridge. The ground is hard going with many small ups and downs, rocky outcrops and no path.
5. Further down the ridge is named A' Mhuing which means 'mane of the horse'. It is possible to come off the ridge into Glenshiel at Torriaoighseach, where a small white house has recently been rebuilt. This is a steep route and should be a last resort; it is better to continue down the ridge eventually following grassy slopes to the rear of the Shiel Bridge campsite where you can walk to the road.
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Route profile
