3,301 ft · Monadhliath, Scotland
Càrn Liath
Càrn Liath is a 3,301 ft peak in the Monadhliath, Scotland. The standard route is the Southeast Slopes: 6 mi, 2,530 ft of gain, Class 2.
Càrn Liath at a glance
- Elevation3,301 ft1,006 m
- RouteSoutheast SlopesClass 2
- Distance6 mi2,530 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeMonadhliathScotland
Climbing the Southeast Slopes
From Laggan, drive west on the A86 to the Aberarder car park at the Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve (card-only parking charge). Follow the Coire Ardair path through the woods, and after about a mile fork right at a small cairn onto a narrow, boggy branch path. It becomes a long grind up the broad hillside, stonier near the top, and fades before the large summit cairn (Class 2). Usually the first summit of the circuit with Stob Poite Coire Ardair and Creag Meagaidh. The broad ridge is confusing in mist and badly exposed to westerly gales. The lower path is wet after rain.
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
- Low visibility
- Boggy terrain
- High winds
Quests with Càrn Liath
MunrosPeaks near Càrn Liath
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Càrn Liath?
Càrn Liath is 3,301 feet (1,006 m) tall. It is in the Monadhliath, Scotland.
How does Càrn Liath rank among the Munros?
At 3,301 feet, Càrn Liath is the 127th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Càrn Liath?
The Southeast Slopes 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 2,530 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Càrn Liath?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Southeast Slopes, covering 6 miles with 2,530 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Càrn Liath?
Usually, if you are fit. The Southeast Slopes 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 Liath?
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 Liath 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