3,199 ft · Central Highlands, Scotland
A' Mharconaich
A' Mharconaich is a 3,199 ft peak in the Central Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Northeast Ridge from Balsporran: 6 mi, 1,870 ft of gain, Class 2.
A' Mharconaich at a glance
- Elevation3,199 ft975 m
- RouteNortheast Ridge from BalsporranClass 2
- Distance6 mi1,870 ft gain
- Time4 – 6 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCentral HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Northeast Ridge from Balsporran
From Dalwhinnie, drive south on the A9 to the Balsporran turn-off on the west side of the road. Start from the Balsporran Cottages car park, cross the railway at the level crossing and follow the track up the glen. Climb the steep prow of the northeast ridge above a craggy corrie onto the plateau, then walk across matting-protected ground to the summit cairn and shelter. The route is Class 2. Usually combined with Geal-charn on a circuit from Balsporran. The burn near the car park can require wading after rain, and the corrie edge needs care in winter conditions or cloud.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- Low visibility
- Boggy terrain
- Stream crossing
- High winds
Quests with A' Mharconaich
MunrosPeaks near A' Mharconaich
Frequently asked questions
How tall is A' Mharconaich?
A' Mharconaich is 3,199 feet (975 m) tall. It is in the Central Highlands, Scotland.
How does A' Mharconaich rank among the Munros?
At 3,199 feet, A' Mharconaich is the 180th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike A' Mharconaich?
The Northeast Ridge from Balsporran is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 6 miles with 1,870 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike A' Mharconaich?
Most people take 4 – 6 hours round trip on the Northeast Ridge from Balsporran, covering 6 miles with 1,870 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike A' Mharconaich?
Usually, if you are fit. The Northeast Ridge from Balsporran is a common first summit for hikers ready for 4 – 6 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike A' Mharconaich?
The usual hiking window is May to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb A' Mharconaich with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list