NG8348 : An Staonach east summit

An Staonach

516m Elevation
229m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NG8348 : An Staonach east summit

Toby Speight Photo source

Explore routes near An Staonach

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km ~6h Hard

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Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

4.6 km ~2h Hard

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Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath

8.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Eastern Ridge Route

This popular route begins at the nearby car park and follows the eastern ridge, gradually gaining height with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The ascent offers a rewarding challenge without being overly technical.

8.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Highland Five

Elevation

516m

1,693 ft

Prominence

229m

Coordinates

57.4710, -5.6206

NG829480

OS Map

24

Explorer: 428N

At the Summit

The summit is marked with a stone cairn, providing a perfect spot to catch your breath and enjoy the panoramic views. On a clear day, the vistas stimulate not just the eyes, but also the imagination.

Terrain & Geology

Varied terrain including rocky paths grassy slopes and occasional boggy areas. Be prepared for a bit of everything!

An Staonach is primarily composed of rugged granite, with evidence of glacial sculpting. The steep cliffs showcase some interesting scree formations, making for aesthetic views (and a bit of a scramble) for those keen on geology.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can admire the iconic peaks of Ben Nevis to the south, and the breathtaking Loch Leven stretching out below. On clear days, the Isle of Skye can even be spotted in the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

In Gaelic, 'An Staonach' translates to 'the leaning one', likely referring to the mountain's distinctive shape that leans towards the valley.

Historical Significance

Historically, the mountain has been part of local folklore. The surrounding areas are steeped in tales of ancient clans and battles fought in the Highlands.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The closest parking area is located at the foot of the hill, on the A82 road near the village of Ballachulish. It’s a small lay-by, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Public Transport

Buses run regularly from Fort William to Ballachulish. Check local schedules for timings and routes.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities at the summit, but Ballachulish has a pub, a café and public toilets. Perfect to warm up after your hillwalking adventures!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of loose rocks on the ascent. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Highlands, so swift changes in visibility and temperature can occur.

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 Staonach?

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

Are there other walkers around An Staonach?

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 Staonach search or of course create your own walk for An Staonach

Can I organise a walk to An Staonach?

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 Staonach.

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 Staonach?

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 Staonach 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NG829480

View on OpenStreetMap

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