A Ghlas Bheinn and the Falls of Glomach

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A Ghlas Bheinn is a small Munro rather overshadowed by neighbouring Beinn Fhada; it is however a rocky mountain with some character and the ascent can be combined with a visit to the Falls of Glomach.

Terrain

Good paths to the Bealach an Sgairne; the upper slopes of the mountain are craggy but not too difficult, and there is a good return path from the Falls.

Public Transport

None to start. Citilink buses from Glasgow and Inverness stop at Allt a'chruinn, 2km from Morvich.

Start

Morvich. Map and 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 Essentials page for basic information on the skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 21.5km / 13.5 miles
Time (summer conditions): 7 - 9 hours
Ascent: 1196m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NG961211

Summits Climbed

Munro: A' Ghlas Bheinn

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Turn off the A87 at Morvich, and park at the National Trust for Scotland Morvich countryside centre, opposite Morvich Caravan Club site. Start by walking along the continuation of the road, then crossing the bridge at Innichro at its end. Keep ahead on the track on the far side before looking out for a signed path which heads off right after 60m. The path passes through a couple of gates and eventually continues up the glen above the Abhainn Chonaig. After a couple of kilometres keep right at a fork.

A Ghlas-bheinn seen from Loch Duich

Stage 2

For the most part the path keeps well above the river as it heads up the increasingly wild glen. The Allt a Choire Chaoil can usually be crossed on boulders, though it may be difficult or dangerous in spate. The stalkers path then climbs several zigzags en route for the Bealach an Sgairne.

Stage 3

Ignore the path off to the right (which leads to Beinn Fhada), and continue on the main path which cuts dramatically across the steep hillside before continuing the climb up to the pass. The Bealach na Sgairne is marked by a large cairn and has a great view back down Gleann Choinneachain. The narrow path continuing onto A'Ghlas-bheinn heads north from here; it keeps left to avoid the crags just above the pass before cutting back up to the ridge. The ill-defined ridge climbs steeply at first, before heading past a small lochan and over a series of rocky undulations on the two kilometre climb to the summit.

Stage 4

There are several false summits before the small summit cairn is reached, perched atop some slabby rocks. A Ghlas-bheinn is a Munro at 918 metres high. The shortest descent route is via the west ridge (or back the same way), but the Falls of Glomach can be visited without too much extra effort, and are recommended if you have not visited them previously. Continue north from the summit, heading steeply down to a saddle below Creag na Soabhie. From here, either continue along the ridge or bear left down the easy slopes, then keeping the steep ground rising up on your right hand side. You'll soon cross several small streams en route to the summit of the Bealach na Sroine, where a large path to the Falls of Glomach is joined.

Photo: Doogz

Stage 5

Turn right along the path which undulates a little before beginning a descent towards the unseen gorge of the Falls of Glomach ahead. A sign indicates that it is dangerous to proceed further, but most visitors will continue very carefully down to a ledge which has a terrific view of the great falls, where the Allt a'Ghlomaich tumbles in two great leaps down into an awesome gorge.

Stage 6

Return back up the path to the Bealach na Sroine. This time continue on the main path which descends the right hand side of the valley to reach the top of the forestry plantations. Cross the bridge and follow the track down the east side of the river. At the next fork, keep right and the track crosses back over the river. Another track soon joins in from the right. Keep left at the next fork and then right to reach an open area. As the track comes near the river turn left to drop down and cross a footbridge; a path then climbs up to rejoin the outward route on the far side. Turn right and retrace your steps back to Morvich.

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