Beinn Trilleachan, Glen Etive

Summary

Beinn Trilleachan is famed for the rock-climbs on the Trilleachan Slabs high above Loch Etive. For hillwalkers, the mountain provides an enjoyable outing with stunning views.

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Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Very boggy for the initial section. Higher up the hill is mostly pathless with some steeper sections and rocky terrain.

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.

Getting there

Start

Car park at end of public road down Glen Etive.

Public Transport

There is no public transport down Glen Etive.

Start Grid Ref

NN111453

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 8.75km / 5.5 miles
Time (summer conditions): 6 - 7 hours
Ascent: 1000m (Profile)

Summits Climbed

Corbett: Beinn Trilleachan

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Walk Description

User reports (15)

Stage 1

There is a car park before a locked gate at the end of the public road down Glen Etive. This is a beautiful spot at the head of Loch Etive, with views down the loch towards the Ben Cruachan range. Begin the walk by heading through the gate and then immediately leaving the road to head up the west side of the fence enclosing the forestry plantation; this initial section is usually very boggy underfoot.

Stage 2

There is a wet path of sorts; continue by the forest edge for around a kilometre, to around 160m. From here bear left, leaving the forest to aim more directly up the broad ridge to the west. This steepens at times but it is possible to bypass any low crags and outcrops.

Stage 3

Soon grand views open up behind, up Glen Etive towards the two Buachailles. Continue over some easy-angled slabs to a flattened shoulder before the ridge rises again.

Stage 4

Eventually a cairn is reached at the minor summit at 767m, close to the edge of the great sweep of crags and slabs sweeping down to Loch Etive. From here there is a steep descent; it appears rocky and awkward but a path of sorts helps weave a more straightforward way down through the rocks to the bealach beyond.

Stage 5

There are more dramatic views down the gully to Loch Etive from the bealach. The walk continues more easily up the slopes on the far side of the bealach.

Stage 6

The summit cairn is soon reached, a superb viewpoint for the western seaboard on a clear day.

Stage 7

To return to the start, simply retrace your steps back over point 767m and down the ridge.

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