3,432 ft · Southern Highlands, Scotland
Cruach Ardrain
Cruach Ardrain is a 3,432 ft peak in the Southern Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Northwest Ridge via Grey Height: 7 mi, 2,990 ft of gain, Class 2.
Cruach Ardrain at a glance
- Elevation3,432 ft1,046 m
- RouteNorthwest Ridge via Grey HeightClass 2
- Distance7 mi2,990 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeSouthern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Northwest Ridge via Grey Height
From Crianlarich, drive south on the A82 into Glen Falloch and start from the A82 layby in Glen Falloch, avoiding the muddy forest paths from the village. Pass under the railway, follow the track along the River Falloch, cross a footbridge and climb grassy slopes east to the ridge at the top of the trees. Continue over Grey Height and Meall Dhamh, drop to a col and climb the steep northwest shoulder to the summit. The route is Class 2. The lower slopes are sodden and steep ground drops into Coire Ardrain. Beinn Tulaichean is often added to the south.
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
- Low visibility
- Steep exposure
Quests with Cruach Ardrain
MunrosPeaks near Cruach Ardrain
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Cruach Ardrain?
Cruach Ardrain is 3,432 feet (1,046 m) tall. It is in the Southern Highlands, Scotland.
How does Cruach Ardrain rank among the Munros?
At 3,432 feet, Cruach Ardrain is the 85th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Cruach Ardrain?
The Northwest Ridge via Grey Height 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 2,990 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Cruach Ardrain?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Northwest Ridge via Grey Height, covering 7 miles with 2,990 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Cruach Ardrain?
Usually, if you are fit. The Northwest Ridge via Grey Height 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 Cruach Ardrain?
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 Cruach Ardrain 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