3,061 ft · Northwest Highlands, Scotland
Maol Chean-dearg
Maol Chean-dearg is a 3,061 ft peak in the Northwest Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Southeast Ridge via Coulags: 8 mi, 3,060 ft of gain, Class 2.
Maol Chean-dearg at a glance
- Elevation3,061 ft932 m
- RouteSoutheast Ridge via CoulagsClass 2
- Distance8 mi3,060 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeNorthwest HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Southeast Ridge via Coulags
From Lochcarron, follow the A890 northeast toward Achnashellach. Start from the Coulags lay-by by the bridge over the Fionn-abhainn. A well-made path runs up the glen past Coire Fionnaraich bothy, then a stalkers path zigzags to the bealach below Meall nan Ceapairean. Steep quartzite scree, a grassy plateau and a final field of sandstone boulders lead to the large summit cairn. Class 2. Rock ledges across the ridge can confuse in poor visibility. The glen path is boggy after rain and midges gather in summer. Sometimes linked with Sgòrr Ruadh via Bealach na Lice.
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
- Loose rock
- Low visibility
- Boggy terrain
- Insects
Quests with Maol Chean-dearg
MunrosPeaks near Maol Chean-dearg
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Maol Chean-dearg?
Maol Chean-dearg is 3,061 feet (932 m) tall. It is in the Northwest Highlands, Scotland.
How does Maol Chean-dearg rank among the Munros?
At 3,061 feet, Maol Chean-dearg is the 244th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Maol Chean-dearg?
The Southeast Ridge via Coulags is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 8 miles with 3,060 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Maol Chean-dearg?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Southeast Ridge via Coulags, covering 8 miles with 3,060 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Maol Chean-dearg?
Usually, if you are fit. The Southeast Ridge via Coulags 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 Maol Chean-dearg?
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 Maol Chean-dearg 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