Sgurr a' Chaorachain, Bealach na Ba

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A short hillwalk taking advantage of a start at over 2000 feet. Sgurr a Chaorachain is a Corbett summit, and though easy to reach has very dramatic mountain views.

Terrain

The walk is high and exposed throughout. As far as the TV mast it follows an easy track, but beyond it is pathless and follows a rocky ridge with steep sides.

Public Transport

None. Traveline Scotland.

Start

Parking area at the summit of the Bealach Na Ba. Map and directions.

Users' reports

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 7km / 4.5 miles
Time: 2 - 2.5 hours
Ascent: 375m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NG775425

Summits Climbed

Corbett: Sgurr a'Chaorachain

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Park at the summit of the Bealach na Ba, where there is a view indicator and a stunning outlook over the Skye Cuillin and the Isle of Rum beyond. The walk begins by turning right along the road for a very short distance, and then turning left on the track towards the TV transmitter mast. The walk up to the mast follows the track all the way, with ever improving views behind.

Stage 2

The mast is situated at a height of 773 metres and is assumed by many visitors to be the summit of the mountain. The true top, however, is a couple of kilometres away across a pathless, rocky landscape. Head south from the mast, keeping close to the rim of the great cliffs that plunge down into Coire a Choarachain far below. Sgurr a Chaorachain itself soon comes into view.

Stage 3

The ground is very rough as it descends and then climbs again a little. As the ridge narrows slightly and turns east there is a rocky descent, easiest done on the south side. Continue over the undulating, rugged ridge which eventually descends to 700 metres. From here, there is a sharp climb ahead to the west summit; either take it direct or bypass this summit using a path which climbs uphill and passes the top to the left before rejoining the ridge. If the summit is taken direct, there is a rocky descent beyond which starts on the left and cuts down the crags to the right (there is a path for this descent). Either way, enjoy the great views down into Coire na Ba with its tiny ribbon of road.

Stage 4

The true summit is now about six hundred metres further along the ridge, and is marked by a cairn. It has amazing views in all directions, but best of all is the view of the dramatic A Chioch ridge across Coire a'Chaorachain. The lower section of this ridge is almost vertical and is a classic rock-climb, first ascended by Chris Bonnington and Tom Patey in 1960. To return to the car, it is easiest to retrace your steps.

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