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3,537 ft · Central Highlands, Scotland

Ben Starav

Ben Starav is a 3,537 ft peak in the Central Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the North Ridge: 6 mi, 3,480 ft of gain, Class 2.

Ben Starav in the Central Highlands, Scotland

Ben Starav at a glance

  • Elevation3,537 ft1,078 m
  • RouteNorth RidgeClass 2
  • Distance6 mi3,480 ft gain
  • Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonMay – Sep
  • RangeCentral HighlandsScotland

Climbing the North Ridge

From Glencoe, drive east on the A82 and turn onto the single-track Glen Etive road near the Buachaille, following it almost to Loch Etive. Start from the Coileitir track layby in Glen Etive, cross the River Etive and follow the hydro track to the Allt Mheuran bridge. A rough, wet path climbs the north ridge, which steepens and turns bouldery, with some easy hands-on moves near the summit (Class 2). Weather changes quickly here because of the sea loch nearby. Usually combined with Glas Bheinn Mhor, and sometimes Beinn nan Aighenan, on a circuit of the Allt Mheuran.

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

  • Boggy terrain
  • Loose rock
  • Rapid weather shifts
  • High winds

Quests with Ben Starav

Peaks near Ben Starav

  1. Glas Bheinn Mhor

    Glas Bheinn Mhor

    3,271 ft · 1.7 mi away

  2. Beinn nan Aighenan

    Beinn nan Aighenan

    3,150 ft · 1.9 mi away

  3. Stob Coir' an Albannaich

    Stob Coir' an Albannaich

    3,425 ft · 2.9 mi away

  4. Meall nan Eun

    Meall nan Eun

    3,045 ft · 4.3 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Ben Starav?

Ben Starav is 3,537 feet (1,078 m) tall. It is in the Central Highlands, Scotland.

How does Ben Starav rank among the Munros?

At 3,537 feet, Ben Starav is the 62nd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.

How hard is it to hike Ben Starav?

The North Ridge 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 3,480 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Ben Starav?

Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the North Ridge, covering 6 miles with 3,480 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Ben Starav?

Usually, if you are fit. The North Ridge 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 Starav?

The usual hiking window is May to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

What is the trailhead elevation for Ben Starav?

The North Ridge starts at about 120 feet, roughly 3,417 feet below the summit.

Climb Ben Starav 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