Stob Coire a' Chearcaill, from Loch Eil

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Stob Coire a' Chearcaill is a familiar sight across Loch Linnhe from Fort William, but far fewer people actually climb it. This is the easiest route, making use of a track to avoid the boggiest terrain lower down. The views - as might be expected - are excellent.

Terrain

Hill track up to ridge, then short, rough pathless boggy section before easier going to the summit.

Public Transport

None to start.

Start

Blaich, Loch Eil side. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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.

Users' reports

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Bog Factor (key)

Walk Description

Stage 1

Two tracks have a single wide junction on with the A861 road at NN047 771; the right hand one leads to industrial buildings, whilst the left is the start of the walk and has a stalking sign for East Loch Shiel deer management group. Park carefully near this junction, taking care not to obstruct entrances. Begin the walk by heading up the track; it soon forks, with the main track curving right to a new house - continue straight ahead here to the left of the barns. The track leads on through a gate and scattered woodland.

Stage 2

A second gate leads to more open ground. When the track forks again, keep straight ahead. Looking back, the views across Loch Eil become more impressive as height is gained, with Gulvain soon dominating across the loch. Pass through a gate in a deer fence; Corpach now comes into view over to the left.

Stage 3

The track leads up onto the very broad, boggy ridge. Leave the track just before it ends by heading to the right, passing a prominent cairn, and continuing across rough, wet ground. After another cairn the ridge becomes better defined and the going improves once more, with the summit of Stob Coire a' Chearchaill visible above crags in the distance. Continue along the ridge.

Stage 4

After crossing a bump there is a slight dip before the final steeper climb up towards the summit. The trig point stands on a small plateau, but the massive cairn - slightly further back - is marginally higher. The views are superb, with the great bulk of Ben Nevis looking particularly impressive.

Stage 5

The easiest return is to retrace your steps. It is possible from Ceann Caol to descend into Gleann Sròn a'Chreagain and pick up a path once down in the glen, but the terrain between is soggy and a long road walk would be necessary to get back to the car; the track gives pleasanter going.

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