3,698 ft · Central Highlands, Scotland
Ben Cruachan
Ben Cruachan is a 3,698 ft peak in the Central Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the South Ridge via Bealach an Lochain: 6 mi, 4,070 ft of gain, Class 2.
Ben Cruachan at a glance
- Elevation3,698 ft1,127 m
- RouteSouth Ridge via Bealach an LochainClass 2
- Distance6 mi4,070 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCentral HighlandsScotland
Climbing the South Ridge via Bealach an Lochain
From Oban, drive east on the A85 to the Pass of Brander beside Loch Awe. Start from the Falls of Cruachan railway station layby on the A85, pass under the railway and climb a steep, rooty path through woods to the Cruachan dam road. A path up Coire Dearg reaches Bealach an Lochain, then the south ridge becomes blocky boulders and slabs for the final climb (Class 2). The return usually crosses Meall Cuanail. The ridge catches strong wind and sudden squalls. The visitor centre gate locks in the late afternoon, so use the roadside parking. Usually combined with Stob Diamh on the Cruachan Horseshoe.
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
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Slippery terrain
- Steep exposure
Quests with Ben Cruachan
MunrosPeaks near Ben Cruachan
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Ben Cruachan?
Ben Cruachan is 3,698 feet (1,127 m) tall. It is in the Central Highlands, Scotland.
How does Ben Cruachan rank among the Munros?
At 3,698 feet, Ben Cruachan is the 31st highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Ben Cruachan?
The South Ridge via Bealach an Lochain 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 4,070 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Ben Cruachan?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the South Ridge via Bealach an Lochain, covering 6 miles with 4,070 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Ben Cruachan?
Usually, if you are fit. The South Ridge via Bealach an Lochain 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 Ben Cruachan?
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 Ben Cruachan 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