A' Mhaighdean

A' Mhaighdean

A' Mhaighdean Group Walks | Join a Walk

966m Elevation
443m Prominence
Scotland Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Munro Sim High Hill of Britain

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Elevation

966m

3,169 ft

Prominence

443m

Coordinates

57.7196, -5.3467

NH007749

OS Map

19

Explorer: 433 435S

At the Summit

The summit boasts a rugged rocky outcrop and a well-deserved sense of solitude. A simple stone cairn marks the top, offering weary hikers a place to pause and admire their achievement.

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly rocky with patches of grassy slopes and some boggy areas. Good footwear is highly recommended unless you fancy a bit of a squelch.

A' Mhaighdean is primarily composed of ancient Lewisian gneiss, which is known for its complex history and resilience against erosion. This hard rock formation is among the oldest in the UK, dating back over 3 billion years.

Views & Scenery

Panoramic vistas of the surrounding Fisherfield wilderness, including views of Loch a' Bhràthair and the mighty An Teallach. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Isle of Skye.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

A' Mhaighdean translates to 'The Maiden' in Scots Gaelic, evoking a sense of mystery befitting its airy heights.

Historical Significance

Steeped in folklore, the mountain has been part of local stories and traditions, often seen as a sentinel of the wild landscapes.

Popular Routes

Poolewe Approach via Carnmore

Challenging

This is the most well-known and direct route to A' Mhaighdean. Starting from Poolewe, the route follows the track along the shores of Loch Maree and through the Letterewe Estate to Carnmore. From Carnmore, ascend to the col between Ruadh Stac Mor and A' Mhaighdean, then make the final ascent to the summit. This route offers breathtaking views of the Fisherfield wilderness.

37 km 12 hours

Dundonnell Approach via Shenavall Bothy

Challenging

This classic route begins at Corrie Hallie near Dundonnell, following the track to Shenavall Bothy. From there, cross the River Abhainn Strath na Sealga and head into the Fisherfield Forest. Ascend via the col between Ruadh Stac Mor and A' Mhaighdean for a rewarding climb in remote terrain.

32 km 11 hours

Inveran via Loch an Nid

Challenging

Starting from the Inveran area near Loch a' Bhraoin, this less-traveled route takes you past Loch a' Bhraoin and into the Fisherfield Forest. Follow the path to Loch an Nid and ascend the slopes of A' Mhaighdean via the col between Ruadh Stac Mor and A' Mhaighdean. A scenic and remote journey.

30 km 11 hours

Circular Route via Beinn a' Chlaidheimh

Very Challenging

This route includes a circuit of several Fisherfield Munros, starting at Corrie Hallie. The route takes in Beinn a' Chlaidheimh, Sgurr Ban, and Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair before reaching A' Mhaighdean. A long and demanding day for experienced hillwalkers.

40 km 14 hours

Letterewe Traverse from Kinlochewe

Very Challenging

This uncommon but epic route starts from Kinlochewe and traverses the Letterewe Forest. It involves a long approach past Fionn Loch, with the option to camp or bothy along the way. The ascent to A' Mhaighdean is made from the southern side, offering a unique perspective of the mountain.

45 km 15 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Fisherfield Forest car park (NH038759) offers ample parking, though it fills up quickly during peak hiking season.

Public Transport

The nearest public transport options are limited. It may be best to arrange a lift or use a taxi service from nearby towns like Ullapool.

Nearby Facilities

While the immediate area boasts few facilities, Ullapool has cafes, restaurants, and public toilets. Perfect for post-hike recovery!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be aware of sudden weather changes common in the Highlands. The terrain can be rugged with potential for loose rocks, especially on descents.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up A' Mhaighdean?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around A' Mhaighdean through the maps

Are there other walkers around A' Mhaighdean?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for A' Mhaighdean search or of course create your own walk for A' Mhaighdean

Can I organise a walk to A' Mhaighdean?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to A' Mhaighdean.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up A' Mhaighdean?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to A' Mhaighdean here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible