NG9773 : Summit cairn in view

Beinn Lair

859m Elevation
455m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NG9773 : Summit cairn in view

Richard Law Photo source

Explore routes near Beinn Lair

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

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km ~6h Hard

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Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Ben Klibreck

16.9 km ~8h 20m Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

Common Route from Shanavallich

A popular path starting from Shanavallich, offering a scenic ascent and views of surrounding glens.

14 km ~6 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

859m

2,818 ft

Prominence

455m

Coordinates

57.7038, -5.3892

NG981732

OS Map

19

Explorer: 433

At the Summit

The summit features a sizeable granite cairn, serving as both a landmark and a perfect place for a photo op. After all, what’s a Munro without a summit selfie?

Terrain & Geology

Mix of rocky and grassy slopes with some boggy areas near the base.

Beinn Lair boasts stunning granite outcrops typical of the Scottish Highlands, adorned with quartzite and schist. This geology not only creates breathtaking views but also presents pockets of rich biodiversity.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, admire the vast expanse of Loch Maree to the north and the distinctive ridge of Slioch to the south.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Beinn Lair' roughly translates to 'Hill of the Wet Place', a nod to the boggy terrains that can surprise hikers.

Historical Significance

Historically, this peak has been a part of many local legends and is celebrated for its striking natural beauty, drawing hikers who appreciate unspoilt wilderness.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the designated area near Shanavallich, which accommodates several vehicles but can fill up quickly on busy weekends.

Public Transport

Public transport options are limited; best to drive. However, buses do run from Inverness to Gairloch.

Nearby Facilities

In Gairloch, you can find several cafes, a shop for supplies, and public toilets, perfect for a post-hike treat.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Uneven terrain, sudden weather changes, and the infamous midges in summer. Always be prepared and check the forecast!

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 Lair?

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

Are there other walkers around Beinn Lair?

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 Lair search or of course create your own walk for Beinn Lair

Can I organise a walk to Beinn Lair?

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 Lair.

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 Lair?

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 Lair 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: NG981732

View on OpenStreetMap

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Nearby Hills

A' Mhaighdean

966m

Slioch

981m

Beinn Eighe - Ruadh-stac Mor

1,010m

Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair

1,015m

Beinn Eighe - Spidean Coire nan Clach

993m
See 5 more nearby hills