3,087 ft · Central Highlands, Scotland
Càrn Dearg
Càrn Dearg is a 3,087 ft peak in the Central Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Northwest Ridge via Meall na Leitire Duibhe: 8 mi, 2,030 ft of gain, Class 2.
Càrn Dearg at a glance
- Elevation3,087 ft940 m
- RouteNorthwest Ridge via Meall na Leitire DuibheClass 2
- Distance8 mi2,030 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCentral HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Northwest Ridge via Meall na Leitire Duibhe
Ride the West Highland Line to Corrour Station, reachable only by rail. Start from Corrour Station and take the estate track east, forking right toward the south shore of Loch Ossian, then leave it past Peter's Rock on a faint trod through heather. Climb the broad, bumpy ridge over Meall na Leitire Duibhe and around Coire Creagach to the summit cairn. The ascent is Class 2 on partly pathless ground. Usually combined with Sgor Gaibhre by way of the Mam Ban bealach. The ridge is vague in cloud and needs careful navigation. Check the train timetable and leave time to spare for the last service.
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
- Boggy terrain
- Low visibility
- Remote location
Quests with Càrn Dearg
MunrosPeaks near Càrn Dearg
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Càrn Dearg?
Càrn Dearg is 3,087 feet (940 m) tall. It is in the Central Highlands, Scotland.
How does Càrn Dearg rank among the Munros?
At 3,087 feet, Càrn Dearg is the 232nd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Càrn Dearg?
The Northwest Ridge via Meall na Leitire Duibhe is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 8 miles with 2,030 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Càrn Dearg?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Northwest Ridge via Meall na Leitire Duibhe, covering 8 miles with 2,030 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Càrn Dearg?
Usually, if you are fit. The Northwest Ridge via Meall na Leitire Duibhe 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 Càrn Dearg?
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 Càrn Dearg 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