NN1973 : "Topping out" Aonach Mor as the sun sets over Ben Nevis

Aonach Mor

1,220m Elevation
133m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN1973 : "Topping out" Aonach Mor as the sun sets over Ben Nevis

Iain Lees Photo source

Explore routes near Aonach Mor

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.

The Gondola Approach and Ridge Walk

Start from the Nevis Range Mountain Resort, using the gondola to gain elevation. From the top station, follow the marked trail to the ridge, and then ascend to the summit of Aonach Mòr. This route offers stunning views of Glen Nevis and the surrounding peaks. Return via the same path.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag Traverse

Begin at the parking area near the Steall Falls trailhead in Glen Nevis. Ascend steeply through the Coire Guibhsachan to reach the ridge. From here, summit Aonach Beag, then follow the high ridge to Aonach Mòr. Descend via the northern slopes back to the gondola station or retrace your steps.

16 km ~7 hours Hard

The West Face Direct Ascent

This challenging route starts from the car park at Torlundy. Follow the forestry tracks towards the west face of Aonach Mòr, then ascend steeply via one of the gullies or ridges (depending on conditions) to reach the summit. This route is more direct but requires good navigation and fitness.

8.5 km ~5 hours Hard

Aonach Mòr Winter Ski Route

In winter conditions, use the Nevis Range gondola to access the snow slopes. From the top station, skin or hike up the prepared pistes to the summit. This route is popular with ski tourers and offers a straightforward ascent, but be cautious of weather and avalanche risks.

6 km ~3 hours Moderate

Carn Mòr Dearg and Aonach Mòr Circuit

Start from the North Face car park. Ascend Carn Mòr Dearg via its northeast ridge, then follow the ridge to Aonach Mòr. Descend via the Coire Giubhsachan to complete the loop. This route combines dramatic ridgelines and remote scenery.

18 km ~8 hours Very Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,220m

4,004 ft

Prominence

133m

Coordinates

56.8129, -4.9617

NN193729

OS Map

41

Explorer: 392

At the Summit

The summit is adorned with a trig point and a large stone cairn, a perfect spot to catch your breath and enjoy the sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some steep sections; well-marked paths on the most popular routes.

Aonach Mor is primarily composed of granite and schist, typical of the rugged geology found throughout the Highlands. This area has been shaped by glacial activity, leaving behind impressive cliffs and deep corries.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Ben Nevis, the largest mountain in the UK, and the surrounding valleys and peaks.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Aonach Mor translates to 'Big Ridge' in Gaelic, reflective of its imposing presence in the landscape.

Historical Significance

Aonach Mor is popular with climbers and hikers looking to tackle the Munros, and it plays a vital role in the local outdoor tourism industry.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The Nevis Range Ski Resort offers ample parking, with clear signage directing you to the footpaths leading to Aonach Mor.

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from Fort William to the Nevis Range. The nearest train station is Fort William, with bus or taxi services available from there.

Nearby Facilities

The Nevis Range Ski Resort has a café, and public toilets are available in the visitor centre.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, especially in wet conditions; be mindful of changing weather conditions as they can affect visibility and make paths slippery.

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 Mor?

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

Are there other walkers around Aonach Mor?

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

Can I organise a walk to Aonach Mor?

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 Mor.

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 Mor?

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 Mor 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: NN193729

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Nearby Hills

Aonach Beag

1,234m

Carn Mor Dearg

1,220m

 Ben Nevis [Beinn Nibheis]

Ben Nevis [Beinn Nibheis]

1,345m

An Gearanach

982m

Sgurr a' Mhaim

1,099m
See 5 more nearby hills