3,212 ft · Western Highlands, Scotland
Ciste Dhubh
Ciste Dhubh is a 3,212 ft peak in the Western Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Am Bathach Ridge: 7 mi, 3,410 ft of gain, Class 2.
Ciste Dhubh at a glance
- Elevation3,212 ft979 m
- RouteAm Bathach RidgeClass 2
- Distance7 mi3,410 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeWestern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Am Bathach Ridge
From Invergarry, drive west on the A87 along Loch Cluanie to the A87 layby east of the Cluanie Inn, on the north side of the road. Walk east to an old gate and climb the grassy ridge of the Corbett Am Bathach, then drop to the Bealach a' Choinich. A boggy path climbs the very steep grass slope beyond, and the ridge narrows to a rocky summit (Class 2). The glen path of the Allt a' Chaorainn Bhig gives a lower return that skips Am Bathach. Occasionally added to the Brothers Ridge via Aonach Meadhoin. The bealach is wet after rain and the narrow crest is exposed to wind in cloud.
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
- Steep exposure
- Boggy terrain
- Low visibility
- High winds
Quests with Ciste Dhubh
MunrosPeaks near Ciste Dhubh
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Ciste Dhubh?
Ciste Dhubh is 3,212 feet (979 m) tall. It is in the Western Highlands, Scotland.
How does Ciste Dhubh rank among the Munros?
At 3,212 feet, Ciste Dhubh is the 173rd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Ciste Dhubh?
The Am Bathach Ridge is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 7 miles with 3,410 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Ciste Dhubh?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Am Bathach Ridge, covering 7 miles with 3,410 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Ciste Dhubh?
Usually, if you are fit. The Am Bathach Ridge 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 Ciste Dhubh?
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 Ciste Dhubh 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