3,451 ft · Monadhliath, Scotland
Beinn a' Chaorainn
Beinn a' Chaorainn is a 3,451 ft peak in the Monadhliath, Scotland. The standard route is the South Ridge via Meall Clachaig: 7 mi, 2,820 ft of gain, Class 2.
Beinn a' Chaorainn at a glance
- Elevation3,451 ft1,051 m
- RouteSouth Ridge via Meall ClachaigClass 2
- Distance7 mi2,820 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeMonadhliathScotland
Climbing the South Ridge via Meall Clachaig
From Roy Bridge, drive east on the A86 past Tulloch to the west end of Loch Laggan near the dam. Start from the Roughburn forestry parking by the forest gate and follow the track uphill, then a very boggy path through the trees to open hillside. Climb over Meall Clachaig onto the ridge and walk north over the south top to the central summit. The route is Class 2 with few clear paths. Usually combined with Beinn Teallach to the west. Steep east-facing corries drop from the crest and carry big cornices into spring, so keep back from the edge in mist and navigate with care.
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
- Cornices
- Low visibility
- Boggy terrain
- Steep exposure
Quests with Beinn a' Chaorainn
MunrosPeaks near Beinn a' Chaorainn
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Beinn a' Chaorainn?
Beinn a' Chaorainn is 3,451 feet (1,051 m) tall. It is in the Monadhliath, Scotland.
How does Beinn a' Chaorainn rank among the Munros?
At 3,451 feet, Beinn a' Chaorainn is the 79th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Beinn a' Chaorainn?
The South Ridge via Meall Clachaig is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 7 miles with 2,820 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Beinn a' Chaorainn?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the South Ridge via Meall Clachaig, covering 7 miles with 2,820 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Beinn a' Chaorainn?
Usually, if you are fit. The South Ridge via Meall Clachaig 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 Beinn a' Chaorainn?
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 Beinn a' Chaorainn 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