Ben Armine
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Exploring Ben Armine
Welcome to Ben Armine, a hidden gem nestled in the Scottish Highlands! Standing at a noble 815 meters, this Marilyn adds an easy yet gratifying challenge for hikers looking to stretch their legs and explore the great outdoors.
Geology
Ben Armine's craggy visage is made up mainly of schist and gneiss - impressive rock types for an impressive mountain! Over time, geological processes have sculpted the landscape into what you see today. It's a geologist's playground!
Routes
One great way to tackle this mountain is via the Ben Armine Circuit. This moderate hike covers approximately 12 km and can be completed in around 5 hours. The trail begins at the Ben Armine forest track, winding through delightful woodland before ascending toward the summit. Perfect for those whose idea of a good time includes stunning views and a bit of a burn in the legs.
Summit Features
At the summit, you will find a well-established cairn. It’s a worthy spot to rest, refuel, and revel in the grandeur of the Highlands. Don’t forget your granola bars!
Terrain
Get ready for a bit of everything! The terrain offers grassy slopes which are easy on the feet, alongside some rocky patches that will keep you engaged. Just mind those tricky bogs – they're known for snatching unsuspecting walkers and their boots!
Views
The summit presents breathtaking views, with a panorama that includes the mighty Cairngorm mountains and the extensive moorlands. For the best views, consider visiting in spring or late summer, when you can truly appreciate the vibrant colours of the region.
Hazards
Keep your wits about you! Hazards include loose rocks, slippery trails, and the ever-changing weather that Scottish mountains are famous for. A good pair of hiking boots and a spirit of adventure will go a long way!
Access
The nearest parking can be found at grid reference NC694273, just a short distance from the A9. Tomatin is your nearest stop by public transport, where you can hop on a bus to reach the hiking start point. Inverness is the nearest town with ample facilities for pre-hike provisions.
Facilities
Tomatin is a quaint little village with a couple of pubs and cafes that serve hearty nourishment. Do yourself a favour and pop in for a bite before you tackle the mountain.
History
The name Ben Armine translates to 'Mountain of the Army' in Gaelic, possibly pointing to its historical role as watch point for ancient tribes. The Highland history surrounding this area is rich and fascinating, certainly worth a mention or two.
So lace up those boots, pack your bags, and embrace the adventure waiting on Ben Armine. Happy hiking!
Explore routes near Ben Armine
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.
Ben Klibreck
View route
Loch Migdale from Torroy: Spinningdale pinewood and loch shore walk
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Findhorn guided night walk
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Culbin Forest: Hill 99, Gravel Pit Ponds and Dragonfly Pool
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.
Ben Armine Circuit
A scenic circular route starting at the Ben Armine forest track that offers stunning views and a varied terrain.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NC6927 : Creag a' Choire Ghlais
Richard Webb
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NC6927 : Ben Armine: Creag a' Choire Ghlais
Richard Webb
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NC6927 : Summit plateau, Creag a' Choire Ghlais
Richard Webb
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
705m
2,314 ft
Prominence
243m
Coordinates
58.2154, -4.2233
NC694273
OS Map
16
Explorer: 443
At the Summit
The summit is marked by a modest cairn, which serves as a perfect spot for a well-deserved snack break (and a photo op) while soaking in the Highland air.
Terrain & Geology
Ben Armine is primarily composed of schist and gneiss, which is a metamorphic rock formed under heat and pressure. Its rugged terrain and rocky outcrops are a testament to the geological forces that shaped this part of the Highlands.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can gaze upon the distant peaks of the Caingorms and the expansive moorland that characterises this stunning region.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Ben Armine' is derived from Gaelic, meaning 'Mountain of the Army', potentially highlighting its historical significance as a viewpoint.
Historical Significance
This mountain and the surrounding lands are rich in Scottish history, having been a part of ancient tribal territories.
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 parking area at grid reference NC694273, just off the A9, which is the main route through the Highlands.
Public Transport
The nearest public transport options are at the village of Tomatin, where you can find bus services.
Nearby Facilities
While there are no facilities directly on the mountain, Tomatin has a few local pubs and cafes where you can grab a bite before or after your hike.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Loosely packed rocks, slippery paths, and the occasional sudden weather changes are typical. Be wary of boggy ground which can swallow up unsuspecting boots.
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 Ben Armine?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Ben Armine through the maps
Are there other walkers around Ben Armine?
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 Ben Armine search or of course create your own walk for Ben Armine
Can I organise a walk to Ben Armine?
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 Ben Armine.
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 Ben Armine?
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 Ben Armine 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: NC694273
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.
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764m
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697m
Creag Mhor
713m
Meall a' Bhata
583m
Meallan Liath Mor
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