3,345 ft · Western Highlands, Scotland
Aonach air Chrith
Aonach air Chrith is a 3,345 ft peak in the Western Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Via Maol Chinn-dearg: 6 mi, 3,180 ft of gain, Class 2.
Aonach air Chrith at a glance
- Elevation3,345 ft1,019 m
- RouteVia Maol Chinn-deargClass 2
- Distance6 mi3,180 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeWestern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Via Maol Chinn-dearg
From Invergarry, follow the A87 west past the Cluanie Inn for about 3 km to the A87 layby at the Druim Coire nan Eirecheanach stalkers' path. Climb the zig-zag path to Maol Chinn-dearg, then follow the ridge east-southeast over a dip to the summit, the highest point on the South Glen Shiel Ridge. Short rocky sections near the top are narrow but can be bypassed on a path (Class 2). Most walkers take it on the full traverse of the ridge from the Cluanie Inn with Druim Shionnach and Creag a' Mhaim. Slabby crags drop to the north, so take care in mist, and expect strong westerly wind.
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
- Knife-edge ridge
- Low visibility
- High winds
- Stream crossing
Quests with Aonach air Chrith
MunrosPeaks near Aonach air Chrith
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Aonach air Chrith?
Aonach air Chrith is 3,345 feet (1,019 m) tall. It is in the Western Highlands, Scotland.
How does Aonach air Chrith rank among the Munros?
At 3,345 feet, Aonach air Chrith is the 111th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Aonach air Chrith?
The Via Maol Chinn-dearg 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 3,180 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Aonach air Chrith?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Via Maol Chinn-dearg, covering 6 miles with 3,180 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Aonach air Chrith?
Usually, if you are fit. The Via Maol Chinn-dearg is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Aonach air Chrith?
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 Aonach air Chrith 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