Beinn a' Charnain
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Beinn a' Charnain
Overview
Beinn a' Charnain is a magnificent Munro standing proudly at 950 meters, located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. It offers a delightful mixture of rugged terrains and breathtaking views that attract outdoor enthusiasts from near and far.
Geology
The geology of Beinn a' Charnain is a storybook of the Earth's history. Composed mainly of metamorphic schist, skirting the edges of granite, the mountain is shaped by millennia of glacial activity that have contributed to its current form. Geology aficionados might find the erratics and rock formations particularly intriguing.
Routes
From the Strathclyde Trailhead
Starting at the Strathclyde trailhead, this moderate route takes you through verdant forests before opening into breathtaking vistas. With a distance of approximately 12 km, it is manageable for most hikers, taking around 4.5 hours to ascend. Just remember to check the weather, as the Scottish climate can be as unpredictable as a cat on a hot tin roof!
Via Loch Awe
If you're feeling adventurous, the longer route around Loch Awe is quite the odyssey, clocking in at about 14.5 km and requiring around 5.5 hours. Challenge your endurance and relish the stunning waterside scenery, but don’t forget to hydrate—nobody enjoys the taste of dried-out hikers!
Summit Features
Upon reaching the summit, you'll be greeted by a generous stone cairn that acts as both a marker of your accomplishment and a windbreak for your celebratory snack—a must after all that hard work!
Terrain Type
Expect a rocky ascent with bursts of grassy knolls and occasional boggy patches to keep you on your toes. Prepare for loose scree as you approach the summit—watch your footing, and your humour!
Views
Highlights
The views from Beinn a' Charnain are nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, the sight of Loch Awe glimmering below, framed by the rugged landscape, is truly awe-inspiring. A perfect backdrop for your inevitable summit selfie!
Best Seasons
Spring and autumn herald the best views; with blooming heather or fiery foliage adding colour to your journey. Late afternoons during these seasons can provide magical light for photography.
Hazards
Watch out for those notorious Scottish weather changes! Sudden chills can whip through at any moment. Plus, slippery rocks and hidden bogs may test your balance; no one wants to do the Highland Shuffle down a slope!
Nearby Summits
When you're done conquering Beinn a' Charnain, consider tackling nearby peaks like Ben Cruachan (1126 m) and Meall nan Eun (866 m). A double-header day might just sway your hiking buddies into thinking you're both brave and slightly bonkers!
Access
Nearest Parking
The Strathclyde Trailhead features ample parking including spaces for campervans, all for free! During peak seasons, the early bird definitely catches the worm—be sure to nab a spot!
Public Transport
Dalmally train station is your best bet for public transport, with a short taxi ride to the trailhead. Buses also connect Dalmally with Oban, providing further access to this glorious region.
Nearest Town
Dalmally is the closest town offering cafes for a pre-climb bite and supplies. A local treasure!
Facilities
While Beinn a' Charnain offers none of the conveniences of urban life, Dalmally provides decent options for food and emergency toilet breaks before or after your hike.
History
Name Meaning
The mountain's name, translating to 'Hill of the Cairn', pays homage to the history that lies within its stones. You’ll come across many cairns that echo stories of the past.
Significance
Once a critical hunting ground for clans of Argyll, this mountain and its surrounding areas are steeped in rich Scottish history and lore.
In conclusion, Beinn a' Charnain is more than just another hike; it's a journey through both nature and time, with sights and experiences to last a lifetime. Happy hiking!
Explore routes near Beinn a' Charnain
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
Beautiful private beach walk Isle of Harris
View route
Berneray Community Hall to the beautiful beach
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
From the Strathclyde Trailhead
A scenic route that winds through forest paths and open moorland, ascending gently before steepening near the summit.
Via Loch Awe
This route offers a slightly longer trek around the stunning Loch Awe, providing intermittent views of the water before the final ascent.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
215m
705 ft
Prominence
109m
Coordinates
58.1537, -6.8457
NB150285
OS Map
13
Explorer: 458
At the Summit
The summit boasts a large, stone cairn and offers a splendid panoramic view of the surrounding peaks, including some of the finest in the Scottish Highlands. There’s even a sense of conviviality among the clouds, should they be feeling sociable!
Terrain & Geology
The mountain is primarily composed of metamorphic rocks, including schist and granite, giving it a rugged, weathered appearance. The landscape tells tales of geological upheaval and glacial activity, making it both educational and visually striking.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, hikers can enjoy views of Ben Cruachan, the sweeping waters of Loch Awe, and on a clear day, the distant peaks of the Southern Highlands. It’s like nature’s very own postcard!
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Beinn a' Charnain' translates to 'Hill of the Cairn', a nod to the numerous stone piles that adorn its lower slopes and summit.
Historical Significance
Historically, the area has been a vital hunting ground and was part of the ancient territory of the Argyll clans.
Getting There & Facilities
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
Parking
Parking is available at the Strathclyde Trailhead, which accommodates around 20 cars with additional space for campervans. The parking area is free, but it can get busy during peak seasons, so arrive early to secure a spot.
Public Transport
The nearest train station is at Dalmally, with a 6-mile taxi ride to the trailhead. Regular buses also operate from Oban to Dalmally.
Nearby Facilities
There are no facilities on the mountain itself. However, Dalmally offers a couple of cafes and a shop for last-minute essentials, plus public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Be cautious of sudden weather changes, particularly in winter. Slippery rocks and loose scree can pose a challenge, and the potential for boggy areas in lower sections shouldn't be underestimated.
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 Beinn a' Charnain?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Beinn a' Charnain through the maps
Are there other walkers around Beinn a' Charnain?
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 Beinn a' Charnain search or of course create your own walk for Beinn a' Charnain
Can I organise a walk to Beinn a' Charnain?
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 Beinn a' Charnain.
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 Beinn a' Charnain?
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 Beinn a' Charnain 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
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NB150285
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Hills within 30 km
Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
An Cliseam [Clisham]
800m
Beinn Mothal [Ben Mohal]
207m
Coduinn
241m
Sgalabhal [Scalaval] [Scalabhal]
260m
Beinn Mheadhanach [Beinn Mheadhonach]
397m
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