3,015 ft · Western Highlands, Scotland
Gairich
Gairich is a 3,015 ft peak in the Western Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the East Ridge from Loch Quoich Dam: 9 mi, 2,790 ft of gain, Class 2.
Gairich at a glance
- Elevation3,015 ft918 m
- RouteEast Ridge from Loch Quoich DamClass 2
- Distance9 mi2,790 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeWestern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the East Ridge from Loch Quoich Dam
From Invergarry on the A87, take the single-track road west toward Tomdoun and Kinloch Hourn. Start from the Loch Quoich dam parking area and cross the top of the dam, then follow a very boggy path along the shore and over the moor to the forestry below Bealach na Faire. A good stalkers path zigzags up Druim na Gaid Salaich to a broad plateau, then the path steepens up the nose of the east ridge, with a short, easy scramble near the top (Class 2). Midges are bad on still days, and the moor path stays wet long after rain.
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
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Insects
Quests with Gairich
MunrosPeaks near Gairich
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Gairich?
Gairich is 3,015 feet (918 m) tall. It is in the Western Highlands, Scotland.
How does Gairich rank among the Munros?
At 3,015 feet, Gairich is the 272nd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Gairich?
The East Ridge from Loch Quoich Dam is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 9 miles with 2,790 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Gairich?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the East Ridge from Loch Quoich Dam, covering 9 miles with 2,790 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Gairich?
Usually, if you are fit. The East Ridge from Loch Quoich Dam 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 Gairich?
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 Gairich 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