Aonach Beag
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Explore routes near Aonach Beag
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Ben Nevis via Mountain Path
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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark
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Beinn Ime from Succoth
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Ben Lomond in the trossachs
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Classic Aonach Beag and Aonach Mor Traverse
Starting from the Nevis Range car park (NN173776), take the mountain gondola to the upper station. From there, ascend Aonach Mor via the well-trodden paths before continuing along the ridge to Aonach Beag. Descend back to the valley via the Coire Guibhsachan route, finishing near Steall Falls. This route offers breathtaking views of Ben Nevis and the Grey Corries.
Aonach Beag from Glen Nevis
Begin at the car park near Achriabhach in Glen Nevis (NN145677). Head east into the upper Glen Nevis valley, following the path towards Steall Falls. Continue up the Coire Giubhsachan, using steep grassy slopes to reach the col between Aonach Beag and Aonach Mor. From the col, ascend Aonach Beag directly, then retrace your steps for the return journey.
Aonach Beag via the Grey Corries Ridge
Start at Corriechoille near Spean Bridge (NN256815). Follow the Lairig Leacach track to the Bothy, then ascend Stob Ban. Traverse the Grey Corries ridge, summiting Stob Coire Claurigh and Stob Coire an Laoigh before reaching Aonach Beag. Descend via Coire Guibhsachan to Glen Nevis. This longer route is a true test of endurance and navigation.
Aonach Beag Circular from Steall Falls
Starting from the Lower Falls car park in Glen Nevis (NN167691), walk to Steall Falls and head up Coire Giubhsachan. Ascend Aonach Beag via its southern slopes, then continue to Aonach Mor. Descend via the Coire an Lochain route, forming a circular walk back to the starting point. This route is less busy than others and offers a quieter day on the hill.
Winter Ascent of Aonach Beag
This route is for experienced winter walkers. Start at the same point as the Glen Nevis route (NN145677), but ensure you have crampons, an ice axe, and navigational tools. Ascend via Coire Giubhsachan, tackling snow-covered slopes to the summit. Return via the same route to Glen Nevis. The snow transforms the landscape, offering stunning winter scenery.
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Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
1,116m
3,661 ft
Prominence
99m
Coordinates
56.8335, -4.5292
NN457741
OS Map
42
Explorer: OL50 393
At the Summit
The summit features a large cairn and remarkable panoramic views, perfect for a photo op (or a snack, we won't judge).
Terrain & Geology
Aonach Beag consists predominantly of ancient Lewisian gneiss, featuring striking glacial features such as corries and aretes that testify to its glaciated past.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the impressive outlines of Ben Nevis, the deepest lochs, and the intricate web of valleys that make up the Highlands.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Aonach Beag translates to 'little ridge' in Gaelic, an apt description of its profile compared to its towering neighbours.
Historical Significance
Aonach Beag is a popular destination for walkers and climbers, and it plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, supporting diverse wildlife and flora.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
The Nevis Range Ski Centre car park is the most common starting point, with ample space for vehicles and facilities available.
Public Transport
Buses run regularly from Fort William to the Ski Centre, offering an accessible option for walkers.
Nearby Facilities
The nearby ski centre offers a café, restrooms, and picnic areas, perfect for a pre-hike fuel-up.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Loose rocks, particularly on the summit approach, and rapidly changing weather conditions typical of the Highlands.
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 Aonach Beag?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Aonach Beag through the maps
Are there other walkers around Aonach Beag?
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 Aonach Beag search or of course create your own walk for Aonach Beag
Can I organise a walk to Aonach Beag?
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 Aonach Beag.
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 Aonach Beag?
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 Aonach Beag here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
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Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NN457741
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Nearby Hills
Ben Alder
1,148m
Creag Meagaidh
1,128m
Stob Ban
977m
Stob Choire Claurigh
1,177m
Beinn Mheadhoin
541m
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