3,287 ft · Western Highlands, Scotland
Sgùrr na Càrnach
Sgùrr na Càrnach is a 3,287 ft peak in the Western Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain: 6 mi, 4,430 ft of gain, Class 2.
Sgùrr na Càrnach at a glance
- Elevation3,287 ft1,001 m
- RouteFive Sisters Ridge from Bealach an LapainClass 2
- Distance6 mi4,430 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeWestern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain
From Invergarry or Kyle of Lochalsh, follow the A87 into Glen Shiel. Start from the Glen Shiel car park, marked by a battle information board, and climb a steep, boggy path beside the forestry to Bealach an Lapain. Follow the Five Sisters ridge west over Sgurr nan Spainteach, with a short rocky down-scramble, and Sgurr na Ciste Duibhe to the summit (Class 2). It is rarely climbed alone and is usually part of the Five Sisters traverse to Sgurr Fhuaran and Morvich, which needs transport between the ends. The double crest near Ciste Duibhe is confusing in mist.
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
- Route-finding difficulty
- Low visibility
- High winds
- Slippery terrain
Quests with Sgùrr na Càrnach
MunrosPeaks near Sgùrr na Càrnach
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Sgùrr na Càrnach?
Sgùrr na Càrnach is 3,287 feet (1,001 m) tall. It is in the Western Highlands, Scotland.
How does Sgùrr na Càrnach rank among the Munros?
At 3,287 feet, Sgùrr na Càrnach is the 133rd highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Sgùrr na Càrnach?
The Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 6 miles with 4,430 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Sgùrr na Càrnach?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain, covering 6 miles with 4,430 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Sgùrr na Càrnach?
Usually, if you are fit. The Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain 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 Sgùrr na Càrnach?
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 Sgùrr na Càrnach 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