Ben Shieldaig

Ben Shieldaig

Ben Shieldaig Group Walks | Join a Walk

534m Elevation
403m Prominence
Scotland Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Highland Five

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Elevation

534m

1,752 ft

Prominence

403m

Coordinates

57.5098, -5.6184

NG833524

OS Map

24

Explorer: 428N

At the Summit

The summit boasts a stone cairn and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the picturesque Loch Shieldaig below.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky outcrops and grassy slopes with some sections featuring scree that can make for a slippery descent.

Ben Shieldaig is primarily composed of ancient Lewisian gneiss, making it one of the oldest rock types in the UK. The summit also features interesting glacial features, reflecting the dramatic landscape sculpted by ice in the last ice age.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy views of the Torridon range, Beinn Alligin, and the pristine waters of Loch Shieldaig and the surrounding coastline.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Shieldaig' comes from the Gaelic 'Sìldeag', meaning 'the little sheiling', reflecting the area's agricultural past.

Historical Significance

This mountain has been treasured by climbers for generations, and it remains a significant marker in the landscape of the Scottish Highlands.

Popular Routes

North-East Ridge

Moderate

A popular and straightforward ascent starting from the car park at the foot of the mountain. This route offers a healthy dose of leg-burning incline but rewards hikers with spectacular views.

10 km 4 hours

Circular Route via Loch Shieldaig

Moderate

This circular route takes you around Loch Shieldaig, providing a gentler terrain before the final push to the summit. Perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll followed by a challenge.

12 km 5.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park at the start of the North-East Ridge route, just off the A896 road. It can accommodate several vehicles, but arrive early during peak season.

Public Transport

There is limited public transport in the area; however, buses run from nearby towns such as Torridon, though schedules can be infrequent.

Nearby Facilities

Shieldaig village offers a café and basic facilities, though for full-service amenities, you may want to head to larger towns like Torridon.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of changing weather conditions, especially in the Highlands. Mist and rain can obscure paths; slippery rocks and scree can pose a challenge; ensure you have suitable footwear.

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

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Ben Shieldaig?

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

Are there other walkers around Ben Shieldaig?

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

Can I organise a walk to Ben Shieldaig?

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 Shieldaig.

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 Shieldaig?

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 Shieldaig 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