3,442 ft · Central Highlands, Scotland
Geal Charn
Geal Charn is a 3,442 ft peak in the Central Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Normal Route via the Pitridh Bealach: 12 mi, 2,890 ft of gain, Class 2.
Geal Charn at a glance
- Elevation3,442 ft1,049 m
- RouteNormal Route via the Pitridh BealachClass 2
- Distance12 mi2,890 ft gain
- Time8 – 10 hrsHard effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeCentral HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Normal Route via the Pitridh Bealach
From Roy Bridge, drive east on the A86 past the Laggan dam to parking on the south side. Start from the A86 layby near Moy, cross the River Spean and follow the Ardverikie estate track to Lochan na h-Earba. Climb the stalkers' path in Coire Pitridh toward the bealach with Creag Pitridh, leave it where it starts to traverse, and head up broad slopes to the small cairn on the sprawling summit plateau. The route is Class 2. Usually combined with Creag Pitridh and Beinn a' Chlachair. Crags lurk on the flanks, so navigate carefully in mist. A bike cuts time on the approach track.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (35–55 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 Geal Charn
MunrosPeaks near Geal Charn
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Geal Charn?
Geal Charn is 3,442 feet (1,049 m) tall. It is in the Central Highlands, Scotland.
How does Geal Charn rank among the Munros?
At 3,442 feet, Geal Charn is the 81st highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Geal Charn?
The Normal Route via the Pitridh Bealach is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 12 miles with 2,890 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Geal Charn?
Most people take 8 – 10 hours round trip on the Normal Route via the Pitridh Bealach, covering 12 miles with 2,890 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Can a beginner hike Geal Charn?
The Normal Route via the Pitridh Bealach needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 12 miles with 2,890 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
When is the best time to hike Geal Charn?
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 Geal Charn 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