NG9248 : The eastern face of An Ruadh-stac

An Ruadh-Stac

890m Elevation
327m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Good walks are even better shared.

Overview

An Ruadh-Stac: The Red Stack

Overview

An Ruadh-Stac, standing proudly at 789 meters, is a Munro located in the stunning Scottish Highlands. This captivating peak offers hikers a mix of moderate paths and sharp scrambles, catering to various experience levels.

Geology

The mountain’s bedrock predominantly consists of schist and gneiss, ancient metamorphic rocks that tell the story of dramatic geological transformations through the ages. Climbing An Ruadh-Stac, one can appreciate not just the scenic views but also the enthralling history embedded in its rugged flanks.

Routes

Two popular routes grace this mountain, each offering unique experiences.

  • East Ridge Approach: This moderate trail starts at Aultbea and leads hikers along a well-defined path. Expect a delightful blend of grassy slopes and rocky sections.
  • North Face Scramble: For those who crave a challenge, the north face scramble will have your heart racing, with some thrilling climbing sections, although perhaps bring a friend who’s not just there for the view!

Summit Features

Once on top, one finds a neat little cairn at the summit, perfect for taking a triumphant selfie. The summit’s dramatic cliffs provide exhilarating views that will leave you awestruck.

Terrain Type

The terrain varies from grassy slopes to rocky outcrops, with sections of sharp scree. Proper hiking boots are highly recommended to ensure grip on the rocky paths.

Views

Highlights

From the top of An Ruadh-Stac, observers can marvel at Loch Ewe sparkling in the sunlight and see far-off peaks of the Fisherfield Forest. The coastline of Wester Ross also greets you with its stunning beauty.

Best Seasons

Spring and autumn are the prime times to embark on this adventure, offering clearer air and breathtaking scenery, especially when the heather blooms.

Hazards

Hikers should be mindful of loose rocks and steep drops near the summit. Checking the weather beforehand is strongly advised to ensure a safe trip.

Nearby Summits

In the vicinity are other summits such as Beinn a' Chaisteil (811 meters) and Sgurr na Fearna (793 meters), making for great options for those looking to bag more mountains in the area.

Access

Access is straightforward with a small parking area in Aultbea. Do arrive early as spaces are limited! Unfortunately, public transport options are sparse, so a car is preferable.

Facilities

Once you've conquered the mountain, Aultbea has a charming café and public toilets to refresh and recount your adventure.

History

Name Meaning

The name 'An Ruadh-Stac' translates roughly to 'The Red Stack', which is attributed to the distinctive hue of the rocks.

Significance

The mountain holds cultural significance as part of a historical grazing area for sheep farming, reflecting the enduring relationship between the land and its people.

So pack up your gear, grab a friend, and head out to An Ruadh-Stac for a day filled with adventure, breathtaking views, and maybe a laugh or two! Happy hiking!

Explore routes near An Ruadh-Stac

Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km 5h 25m–8h 5m Hard

View route

Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km 1h 15m–1h 40m Moderate

View route

Loch Affric full circuit from River Affric

17.5 km 4h 25m–5h 50m Moderate

View route

Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

4.6 km 1h 35m–2h 20m Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.

East Ridge Approach

A popular route starting from the hamlet of Aultbea, following a well-defined path that leads up the east ridge. The route offers a mix of grass and rocky terrain.

7.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

North Face Scramble

For the more adventurous, this challenging scramble up the north face promises exciting climbing and breathtaking views. Not for the faint-hearted!

5 km ~4 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

890m

2,921 ft

Prominence

327m

Coordinates

57.4750, -5.4683

NG921480

OS Map

25

Explorer: 429

At the Summit

The summit features a small cairn, ideal for that iconic peak photo. You'll also find stunning cliff drops to the surrounding area.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky grassy with sections of scree

An Ruadh-Stac is primarily composed of metamorphic rocks, particularly schist and gneiss. These rocks have been shaped by geological processes over millions of years, giving rise to its rugged terrain and striking cliffs.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can enjoy sweeping views of Loch Ewe, the distant hills of the Fisherfield Forest, and the stunning coastline of Wester Ross.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name An Ruadh-Stac translates to 'The Red Stack' in Scots Gaelic, referring to the distinctive reddish tint of the rocks in certain lights.

Historical Significance

The mountain is part of a traditional grazing area for local farmers and has a rich history of sheep farming.

Getting There & Facilities

Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.

Parking

There is a small parking area near Aultbea, which accommodates about 6-8 cars. Arrive early to secure a space!

Public Transport

Limited bus services run from Gairloch to Aultbea, making this route best accessed by car.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities, including a café and public toilets, can be found in Aultbea, perfect for a post-hike treat!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks and steep drops near the summit can pose a risk. It's advisable to check the weather conditions before your hike.

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

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up An Ruadh-Stac?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around An Ruadh-Stac through the maps

Are there other walkers around An Ruadh-Stac?

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 An Ruadh-Stac search or of course create your own walk for An Ruadh-Stac

Can I organise a walk to An Ruadh-Stac?

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 An Ruadh-Stac.

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 An Ruadh-Stac?

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 An Ruadh-Stac 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

Location

An Ruadh-Stac location map

Grid reference: NG921480

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Hills within 30 km

Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.

Liathach - Mullach an Rathain

1,024m

Liathach - Spidean a' Choire Leith

1,055m

Beinn Eighe - Ruadh-stac Mor

1,010m

Beinn Eighe - Spidean Coire nan Clach

993m

Beinn Alligin - Tom na Gruagaich

922m
See 5 more nearby hills

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