NN5738 : Drifted snow on Beinn nan Eachan

Beinn nan Eachan

1,000m Elevation
90m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NN5738 : Drifted snow on Beinn nan Eachan

Doug Lee Photo source

Overview

Beinn nan Eachan: A Jewel in the Scottish Highlands

Nestled in the stunning Scottish Highlands, Beinn nan Eachan stands majestically at 891 meters, providing hikers not only with a challenging ascent but also with breathtaking views.

Geology

The mountain is composed mainly of ancient granite surrounded by layers of schist and gneiss that form an intriguing geological tapestry. As you ascend, take a moment to appreciate the exposed rock faces, which tell a story of Earth's history dating back over 400 million years.

Routes

Northwest Route from Inversnaid is the most popular way up. This picturesque trail winds through the verdant Inversnaid Nature Reserve, where you may encounter diverse flora and fauna. After departing from the forest, the path opens to moorland, making your final push towards the craggy summit well worth the effort.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, you'll be greeted by a sizeable stone cairn and panoramic views that extend far and wide. On a clear day, gaze upon Ben Lomond and the shimmering Loch Lomond – a sight that makes the climb truly worthwhile.

Terrain

The terrain is a mix of rocky outcrops and grassy slopes, with a few boggy patches to keep you on your toes. Good footwear is recommended to negotiate these delightful challenges without losing your footing.

Views

Hikers are treated to some of the best views that Scotland has to offer. From the summit, witness the landscape unfold; famous Ben Lomond to the south and the charming hills of the Trossachs in the distance. The best seasons for views are Spring and early Autumn when the colours burst into life.

Hazards

While the mountain is an exhilarating adventure, it carries with it the risks of sudden weather changes and slippery sections. Always be prepared for a bit of Scottish drizzle!

Nearby Summits

Combine your adventure with nearby peaks like Ben Lomond (974 m) and Beinn Ime (1011 m) for a full day of exploration.

Access

The nearest parking is available at Inversnaid Hotel, which fills up quickly, so early birds may catch the worm here! Public transport options are available but can be limited, so plan accordingly.

Facilities

Facilities are sparse at Inversnaid, with only the hotel offering dining options. Make sure you pack provisions to keep your energy up during the hike!

History

The name Beinn nan Eachan hints at equine history, as it translates to 'mountain of the horses.' Local lore tells of wild horses that once roamed these rugged hills, adding an exciting layer of cultural significance to your hike.

So strap on your boots and get ready to conquer Beinn nan Eachan – an adventure awaits!

Explore routes near Beinn nan Eachan

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

Killin: Falls of Dochart, Finlarig and Moirlanich Longhouse

6.5 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Kenmore: Drummond Hill Black Rock Trail above Loch Tay

4.6 km ~2h Moderate

View route

Loch Lubnaig: West Shore Railway Path from Ben Ledi Car Park

7.6 km ~2h 45m Easy

View route

Aberfeldy: Glassie Woodland and River Tay Circular

7.5 km ~3h Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

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

Northwest Route from Inversnaid

This route starts at the Inversnaid nature reserve and winds its way up through lush forests before breaking onto the moorland, leading you directly to the summit.

14.3 km ~5.5 hours Moderate
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

Munro Top Simm High Hills of Britain Subhump

Elevation

1,000m

3,281 ft

Prominence

90m

Coordinates

56.5156, -4.3253

NN570383

OS Map

51

Explorer: OL48E 378E

At the Summit

The summit features a sizeable rock cairn and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with the iconic Loch Lomond just to the south.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with sections of boggy ground particularly lower down.

Beinn nan Eachan is primarily composed of ancient granite, with some schist and gneiss rock formations that date back over 400 million years. The weathered rock faces reveal fascinating stratifications, making it a photographer's playground.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the majestic Ben Lomond, the sprawling waters of Loch Lomond, and even, on a clear day, the distant hills of the Trossachs.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Beinn nan Eachan translates to 'mountain of the horses' in Gaelic, likely referencing the area's historical significance for horse breeding.

Historical Significance

Local folklore tells tales of the wild horses that once roamed these hills, adding an air of mystique to your hike.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Inversnaid Hotel car park (NN 320 122) has limited spaces and is usually busy, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Public Transport

Buses from central locations like Glasgow run to Inversnaid, but service can be sporadic. Check schedules ahead of time.

Nearby Facilities

Inversnaid has a hotel with dining options, but facilities are limited, so it's wise to pack some snacks and water.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of sudden weather changes, as conditions can shift rapidly, especially on the summit. Some sections can be slippery, particularly during or after rain.

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 nan Eachan?

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

Are there other walkers around Beinn nan Eachan?

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 nan Eachan search or of course create your own walk for Beinn nan Eachan

Can I organise a walk to Beinn nan Eachan?

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 nan Eachan.

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 nan Eachan?

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 nan Eachan 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

Beinn nan Eachan location map

Grid reference: NN570383

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Ben Lawers

1,214m

An Stuc

1,117m

 Ben Vorlich

Ben Vorlich

985m

 Stuc a' Chroin

Stuc a' Chroin

973m

Ben More

1,174m
See 5 more nearby hills