NN1558 : The Aonach Eagach Ridge in Glen Coe

Aonach Eagach West Peak

905m Elevation
32m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NN1558 : The Aonach Eagach Ridge in Glen Coe

Walter Baxter Photo source

Explore routes near Aonach Eagach West Peak

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

View route

Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

View route

Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

Classic Aonach Eagach Traverse

This is the most popular and iconic route for tackling Aonach Eagach, starting from the car park near the Allt-na-reigh at NN173567 and traversing the ridge westward. The route includes the dramatic pinnacles and finishes near the Devil's Staircase at NN145567. This traverse includes both the West Peak and the East Peak, making it a thrilling full-day adventure.

10 km ~6 hours Very Difficult

Ascent from Am Bodach

Begin at the car park at NN188567 and head up the steep path to Am Bodach. From here, follow the ridge westward towards the West Peak. This route tackles the ridge head-on and is ideal for experienced scramblers seeking a challenging climb.

7 km ~5 hours Difficult

Circular Route via Glen Coe

Starting at the Glen Coe Visitor Centre at NN110585, this route ascends the West Peak via the Pap of Glencoe path, then traverses part of the ridge before descending back to Glen Coe. This circular option offers stunning views but avoids the more exposed sections of the ridge.

12 km ~7 hours Moderate

West Peak Out-and-Back

This route begins at the car park at NN158583 and climbs directly to the West Peak via the Coire nan Lochan path. It is an out-and-back route, ideal for walkers who want to experience the West Peak without committing to the full ridge traverse.

6 km ~4 hours Moderate

Aonach Eagach Ridge with Descent to Kinlochleven

Start at the same point as the classic traverse, but after completing the ridge and the West Peak, descend towards Kinlochleven via the path leading into the Lairig Eilde. This route requires transport coordination but offers a unique alternative descent.

14 km ~8 hours Very Difficult
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.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

905m

2,968 ft

Prominence

32m

Coordinates

56.6797, -5.0159

NN153582

OS Map

41

Explorer: 384

At the Summit

The West Peak boasts a substantial cairn that serves as a beacon for weary climbers. From the summit, you can gaze down at the exhilarating drops on either side.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and exposed with sections of scree mixed with grassy slopes. Some parts will test your grip—hold on tight!

The mountain is primarily composed of volcanic rock, with a prominent display of andesites and basalts that can be traced back to ancient volcanic activity. The rugged crags exhibit evidence of glaciation, giving it those dramatic features hikers adore.

Views & Scenery

Dramatic vistas of Loch Leven, the rural serenity of Glen Duror, and the majestic peaks surrounding Glencoe. If your neck gets stiff, don't say I didn't warn you!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Aonach Eagach' translates to 'The Notched Ridge', a fitting name given its razor-like profile.

Historical Significance

Steeped in local folklore, it is known for its challenging climbs that have tested many a keen mountaineer. The Aonach Eagach ridge has become iconic in Scottish climbing culture.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the large car park located on the A82 near the village of Ballachulish. Arrive early, especially in summer, to secure a spot.

Public Transport

Public transport to the area is available via Scottish Citylink coach services from Oban and Fort William to Ballachulish.

Nearby Facilities

There are refreshment options in Ballachulish, including a couple of cafes and pubs. Public toilets are available in the village.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep and exposed sections, rapid weather changes, and loose stones. Always pay attention to your footing—those rocks can have an attitude!

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 West Peak?

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

Are there other walkers around Aonach Eagach West Peak?

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

Can I organise a walk to Aonach Eagach West Peak?

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 West Peak.

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 West Peak?

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 West Peak 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: NN153582

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Aonach Eagach - Meall Dearg

952m

Aonach Eagach - Sgorr nam Fiannaidh

968m

Stob Coire nan Lochan

1,116m

Bidean nam Bian

1,149m

Stob Coire Sgreamhach

1,072m
See 5 more nearby hills