NN0630 : Rocky slopes near the summit of Cruachan

Ben Cruachan

1,127m Elevation
880m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN0630 : Rocky slopes near the summit of Cruachan

Steven Brown Photo source

Explore routes near Ben Cruachan

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

Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

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Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

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Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

Ben Cruachan Horseshoe

This classic and well-known route takes walkers on a full circuit of the Cruachan Horseshoe. Starting from the Falls of Cruachan railway station, the route begins with a steep ascent to the Cruachan Dam. From there, it climbs to the summit of Ben Cruachan (1126m) before continuing along the ridge to Stob Diamh (998m) and descending via the Allt Coire Ghlais valley. This route offers spectacular views of Loch Awe and the surrounding mountains.

14 km ~8 hours Hard

Ben Cruachan Direct Ascent

This straightforward route focuses on reaching the summit of Ben Cruachan directly. Starting at the Falls of Cruachan car park, the path climbs to the Cruachan Dam and then follows a steep and rocky ascent to the summit. This route is shorter than the Horseshoe but still demands good fitness due to its steepness.

10 km ~6 hours Hard

Cruachan Dam and Meall Cuanail

This moderate route is ideal for those who want a shorter walk with great views. It starts at the Falls of Cruachan railway station and heads up to the Cruachan Dam. From there, it ascends Meall Cuanail (918m), a subsidiary peak of Ben Cruachan, offering stunning views without the full commitment of the Horseshoe.

8 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Stob Diamh via Cruachan Dam

This route focuses on Stob Diamh, the second Munro of the Cruachan range, rather than Ben Cruachan. Starting at the Falls of Cruachan car park, the trail leads to the Cruachan Dam before ascending to Stob Diamh. The route provides excellent views and is slightly less demanding than the full Horseshoe.

12 km ~6.5 hours Moderate

Ben Cruachan via Coire Dearg

This less-traveled route takes a quieter approach to the summit via Coire Dearg. Starting near the Falls of Cruachan, the route ascends through rugged terrain and steep slopes to reach the summit of Ben Cruachan. It is a more challenging alternative to the direct ascent and is suited to experienced walkers looking for a quieter experience.

11 km ~7 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

1,127m

3,698 ft

Prominence

880m

Coordinates

56.4268, -5.1318

NN069304

OS Map

50

Explorer: 377W

At the Summit

The summit of Ben Cruachan hosts a prominent trig point and stunning views of Loch Awe and the surrounding peaks, making it a worthwhile reward for your ascent.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some sections of scree particularly near the summit making careful foot placement essential.

Ben Cruachan is primarily composed of schist and granite, characteristic of the rugged terrain found in the Highlands. The geological formations provide a stunning backdrop and a testament to the mountain’s ancient origins, dating back over 400 million years.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can marvel at the sweeping vistas of Loch Awe, the distant peaks of the Ben Nevis range, and the beautiful landscape of the surrounding Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ben Cruachan' derives from the Gaelic 'Beinn Chrucha', which translates to 'the mountain of the rabbits', potentially referencing the abundant wildlife in the area.

Historical Significance

Historically, Ben Cruachan has been significant as a site of local folklore and is a notable feature in the landscape of Argyll, representing the wild spirit of the Scottish Highlands.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is ample parking available at the Ben Cruachan car park, located at NN 070 293, providing easy access to the starting point of various routes.

Public Transport

The nearest train station is at Dalmally, approximately 8 miles away. Regular buses also serve the area from major towns, and a bit of a walk will lead you to the trailhead.

Nearby Facilities

Public toilets are available at the parking area, but basic food and drink options can be found in Dalmally or at the nearby Cruachan Reservoir Visitor Centre.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep sections leading to the summit can be challenging, especially in wet or icy conditions. Be mindful of sudden weather changes common in 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 Ben Cruachan?

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

Are there other walkers around Ben Cruachan?

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 Cruachan search or of course create your own walk for Ben Cruachan

Can I organise a walk to Ben Cruachan?

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 Cruachan.

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 Cruachan?

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 Cruachan here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NN069304

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