3,031 ft · Northwest Highlands, Scotland
An Coileachan
An Coileachan is a 3,031 ft peak in the Northwest Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Northeast Shoulder via Loch Gorm: 10 mi, 2,660 ft of gain, Class 2.
An Coileachan at a glance
- Elevation3,031 ft923 m
- RouteNortheast Shoulder via Loch GormClass 2
- Distance10 mi2,660 ft gain
- Time7 – 9 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeNorthwest HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Northeast Shoulder via Loch Gorm
From Garve, drive northwest on the A835 to the Loch Glascarnoch layby at the west end of the loch. Cross the moor south on an indistinct path to Loch Gorm, then climb the steep grassy northeast shoulder to the flat summit above the corrie of Garbh Choire Mor. The ascent is Class 2 on mostly pathless ground. Most people continue west to Meall Gorm, and strong walkers link Sgurr Mor and Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich. The approach is one of the wettest in the area, with peat hags and burns to cross. Allow extra time for the bog, and carry a map and compass because there is no phone signal.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (30–40 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
- Boggy terrain
- Stream crossing
- Spotty cell reception
Quests with An Coileachan
MunrosPeaks near An Coileachan
Frequently asked questions
How tall is An Coileachan?
An Coileachan is 3,031 feet (923 m) tall. It is in the Northwest Highlands, Scotland.
How does An Coileachan rank among the Munros?
At 3,031 feet, An Coileachan is the 265th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike An Coileachan?
The Northeast Shoulder via Loch Gorm is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 10 miles with 2,660 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike An Coileachan?
Most people take 7 – 9 hours round trip on the Northeast Shoulder via Loch Gorm, covering 10 miles with 2,660 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike An Coileachan?
Usually, if you are fit. The Northeast Shoulder via Loch Gorm is a common first summit for hikers ready for 7 – 9 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike An Coileachan?
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 An Coileachan 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