NN2345 : The Aonach Eagach Ridge of Stob Ghabhar

Aonach Eagach

1,000m Elevation
9m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN2345 : The Aonach Eagach Ridge of Stob Ghabhar

Iain Lees Photo source

Explore routes near Aonach Eagach

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

Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

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Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

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Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

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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 Eagach Ridge Traverse (East to West)

This iconic route begins at the car park near Allt-na-reigh (grid ref NN173566). After ascending Am Bodach via a steep path, the route follows the narrow ridgeline westward, tackling Grade 2 scrambles and exposed sections. Key features include the infamous Crazy Pinnacles and sharp, airy ridges. Descent is made via the Devil's Staircase path near Altnafeadh, requiring either a car shuttle or a walk back to the start point on the A82.

10.5 km ~7.5 hours Challenging

Aonach Eagach Ridge via Am Bodach and Sgorr nam Fiannaidh (Circular)

Starting at the same location near Allt-na-reigh, this circular route ascends Am Bodach and follows the ridge westward across Meall Dearg and the Crazy Pinnacles. After reaching Sgorr nam Fiannaidh, descent is made via a steep and eroded path heading south towards the village of Glencoe. From there, a low-level route along the A82 completes the circuit back to the start.

12 km ~8 hours Very Challenging

Aonach Eagach Ridge (West to East Traverse)

This less conventional route begins near Glencoe village, ascending via the steep path to Sgorr nam Fiannaidh. The traverse continues eastward, navigating the Crazy Pinnacles and other exposed scrambles to Am Bodach. Descent involves retracing steps or taking a steep route back to the A82 near Allt-na-reigh.

10.5 km ~7.5 hours Challenging

Shorter Aonach Eagach Scramble (Am Bodach to Meall Dearg)

For those seeking a shorter day, this route starts at the car park near Allt-na-reigh and ascends Am Bodach. The route continues across the ridge to Meall Dearg, experiencing key scrambling sections without completing the full traverse. Return is made by retracing steps to the start.

7 km ~5 hours Challenging

Sgorr nam Fiannaidh via Clachaig Gully (Alternative Ascent)

This route skips the full ridge traverse, focusing on Sgorr nam Fiannaidh. Starting at the Clachaig Inn, the path ascends steeply via Clachaig Gully to the summit. This is a demanding ascent with loose terrain, offering impressive views. Return is made by retracing the route downhill.

6 km ~4.5 hours Moderate to Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Deleted Munro Top

Elevation

1,000m

3,281 ft

Prominence

9m

Coordinates

56.5669, -4.8735

NN235453

OS Map

50

Explorer: 377E 384

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn marking the peak, along with stunning panoramic views of the glens and surrounding peaks, including the majestic Buachaille Etive Mòr.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with steep ascents and descents including sections that require careful navigation and scrambling. Expect some boggy areas too if the weather has been wet.

The Aonach Eagach ridge is primarily composed of schist, a metamorphic rock that has been shaped by high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, giving it a rugged appearance. The stunning cliffs and steep faces show signs of glacial erosion, making it a geological marvel.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Glen Coe valley, the rugged peaks of the Black Mount, and the expansive vistas of the Scottish Highlands. Keep an eye out for the iconic shape of Ben Nevis peeking through the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Aonach Eagach' translates to 'the notched ridge', which is quite fitting given its serrated profile.

Historical Significance

The ridge is not just a physical challenge; it has been a popular site for climbers and walkers for decades, featuring in numerous climbing guides and literature. It holds tales of both adventure and folly.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Car park near the village of Glencoe, which is well signposted and has ample space, though it can get busy during peak seasons.

Public Transport

There are bus services that connect Glencoe with larger towns. The West Highland line train service to Fort William is also an option, with local buses to Glencoe.

Nearby Facilities

Nearby facilities include the Clachaig Inn, which serves delicious meals and provides a welcoming environment, as well as public toilets in the village.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep drops on either side of the ridge, loose rocks that can be dislodged, and the potential for rapidly changing weather conditions. Beginners should consider turning back if facing tough conditions.

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 Eagach?

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

Are there other walkers around Aonach Eagach?

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 Eagach search or of course create your own walk for Aonach Eagach

Can I organise a walk to Aonach Eagach?

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 Eagach.

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 Eagach?

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 Eagach 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: NN235453

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