Beinn Dearg
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Beinn Dearg: A Gem of the Scottish Highlands
Beinn Dearg, standing proudly at 1,031 meters, is one of the esteemed Munros located deep within the Scottish Highlands. Its striking elevation and formidable silhouette make it a rewarding challenge for both seasoned mountaineers and keen hikers alike.
Geology
The mountain is primarily composed of ancient Lewisian gneiss, the oldest rocks in the UK, dating back a staggering 3 billion years. With layers of history etched in stone, Beinn Dearg offers a fantastic glimpse into the geological past. It’s enough to make you feel a tad insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but don’t let that put you off your hike!
Access
Getting to Beinn Dearg is quite straightforward. The nearest parking is available at Glencanisp Lodge, where you can securely leave your vehicle. However, be warned: this car park fills up faster than you can say 'hurry up!', especially on sunny weekends. Public transport is limited, so it’s wise to check bus schedules out of Ullapool, the nearest town, before you plan your adventure. The friendly locals often offer taxi services, which can help bridge the gap between bus routes and the trailhead.
Routes
There are a couple of popular routes to choose from:
- Glencanisp Lodge Route: A scenic climb that takes you through striking moorlands before heading steeply upwards, making sure your legs get a good workout.
- Inveralligin Route: Slightly more challenging, this route offers varied terrain and captivating views, ensuring you’ll hardly notice the burn in your thighs.
Both routes offer their own unique charm and are well worth the effort!
Summit Features
As you reach the summit, you’re greeted by an iconic stone cairn. There’s nothing quite like plonking yourself down next to a pile of rocks, feeling triumphant with the world laid out below you!
Views
Prepare for some truly breathtaking views that are postcard-perfect. From here, you can see Loch Fannaich shimmering in the distance, the rugged outlines of the Fisherfields, and the majestic peaks of Liathach and Beinn Eighe. Best seasons for these sights? Late spring and early autumn would be your best bets for stunning vistas and diverse wildlife.
Hazards
Beinn Dearg may look like a doddle on sunny days, but beware! The weather can change quicker than a cat on a hot tin roof, often leading to steep, slippery sections which demand your full attention.
Nearby Summits
Eager to explore more? Nearby peaks like Beinn Fhionnlaidh and Maol Chean-dearg await, perfect for those looking to lengthen their hiking tale.
Conclusion
In summary, Beinn Dearg is not just a walk in the park but more like a roller-coaster of stunning mountain scenery, delightful challenges, and an age-old geological narrative. Get your hiking boots on, pack a lunch, and enjoy all that this splendid Munro has to offer!
Whether you saunter up at sunrise or trudge up in late autumn, Beinn Dearg promises a memorable experience in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Safe travels!
Explore routes near Beinn Dearg
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.
Glen Kin group walk
View route
Crinan Canal: Bellanoch and Dunardry towpath return
View route
Beinn Ime from Succoth
View route
The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark
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.
Glencanisp Lodge Route
A scenic route starting from Glencanisp Lodge, winding through beautiful moorland before ascending the steep slopes to the summit.
Inveralligin Route
This route approaches Beinn Dearg from the southwest, offering varied terrain and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
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
483m
1,586 ft
Prominence
146m
Coordinates
56.1966, -5.1862
NN024050
OS Map
55
Explorer: 360S
At the Summit
The summit is characterised by a large stone cairn and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, making it a quintessential Munro experience.
Terrain & Geology
Beinn Dearg is predominantly composed of Lewisian gneiss, which is among the oldest rock formations in Europe, dating back over 3 billion years. This ancient geology forms the dramatic peaks and rugged cliffs characteristic of the Scottish Highlands.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, hikers can enjoy views of Loch Fannaich, the Fisherfields, and the imposing peaks of Liathach and Beinn Eighe.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Beinn Dearg' translates from Gaelic as 'Red Mountain', possibly referring to the reddish hues of the gneiss at sunset.
Historical Significance
Beinn Dearg holds cultural significance in Scottish heritage, often featured in folklore and traditional stories of the Highlands.
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
There is a small car park near Glencanisp Lodge, which accommodates several vehicles but can fill up quickly during peak times.
Public Transport
The nearest town with bus services is Ullapool, from where you may need to book a taxi or arrange for a pick-up.
Nearby Facilities
Ullapool has several cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as public toilets, making it a suitable base for hikers.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Steep and rocky sections can pose a risk, particularly in wet conditions. Beware of sudden weather changes characteristic 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 Beinn Dearg?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Beinn Dearg through the maps
Are there other walkers around Beinn Dearg?
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 Dearg search or of course create your own walk for Beinn Dearg
Can I organise a walk to Beinn Dearg?
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 Dearg.
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 Dearg?
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 Dearg 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: NN024050
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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