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3,038 ft · Northwest Highlands, Scotland

Beinn Liath Mhòr

Beinn Liath Mhòr is a 3,038 ft peak in the Northwest Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the East Ridge and Coire Lair: 9 mi, 3,460 ft of gain, Class 2.

Beinn Liath Mhòr in the Northwest Highlands, Scotland

Beinn Liath Mhòr at a glance

  • Elevation3,038 ft925 m
  • RouteEast Ridge and Coire LairClass 2
  • Distance9 mi3,460 ft gain
  • Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonMay – Sep
  • RangeNorthwest HighlandsScotland

Climbing the East Ridge and Coire Lair

From Lochcarron, follow the A890 to Achnashellach. Start from the Achnashellach station lay-by, cross the railway line and follow tracks and a stalkers path into lower Coire Làir. A very steep climb gains the east end of the ridge, then the crest runs west over white quartzite screes to the summit. Class 2, with minor scrambling on the rocky descent toward the Coire Làir bealach. Route-finding among the crags and knolls on that descent is tricky in cloud. Return down the Coire Làir stalkers path. Quartzite is slippery when wet. Munro baggers often add Sgòrr Ruadh on the same day.

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

  • Route-finding difficulty
  • Loose rock
  • Slippery terrain
  • Low visibility

Quests with Beinn Liath Mhòr

Peaks near Beinn Liath Mhòr

  1. Sgòrr Ruadh

    Sgòrr Ruadh

    3,152 ft · 1.0 mi away

  2. Maol Chean-dearg

    Maol Chean-dearg

    3,061 ft · 2.8 mi away

  3. Spidean a' Choire Lèith

    Spidean a' Choire Lèith

    3,461 ft · 4.3 mi away

  4. Mullach an Rathain

    Mullach an Rathain

    3,359 ft · 4.8 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Beinn Liath Mhòr?

Beinn Liath Mhòr is 3,038 feet (925 m) tall. It is in the Northwest Highlands, Scotland.

How does Beinn Liath Mhòr rank among the Munros?

At 3,038 feet, Beinn Liath Mhòr is the 261st highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.

How hard is it to hike Beinn Liath Mhòr?

The East Ridge and Coire Lair is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 9 miles with 3,460 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Beinn Liath Mhòr?

Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the East Ridge and Coire Lair, covering 9 miles with 3,460 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Beinn Liath Mhòr?

Usually, if you are fit. The East Ridge and Coire Lair is a common first summit for hikers ready for 6 – 8 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.

When is the best time to hike Beinn Liath Mhòr?

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 Liath Mhòr 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