Ben Alder and Beinn Bheòil from Culra
Summary
Ben Alder is one of the great remote mountains of Scotland, set in the very heart of the Central Highlands. Approaches are long from any direction; Corrour Station gives the nearest access from the west, whilst it is possible to approach from Loch Rannoch in the south. The finest approach, however, is from Culra bothy (closed but you can camp nearby) to the northeast, accessed via a long walk-in or cycle from Dalwhinnie.
Terrain
Some pathless ground on approach and descent, and simple scrambling on the Long Leachas ridge. Descent from Ben Alder to the bealach is down a steep open slope; navigation could be difficult here and on the plateau.
Public Transport
No road access to Culra. Dalwhinnie rail station is very convenient for the walk-in to Culra.
Start
Culra bothy; no vehicular access.
Hillwalking in Winter
Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Skills page for basic information on the essential skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.