NN2254 : Stob Dearg from A82

Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg

1,021m Elevation
532m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NN2254 : Stob Dearg from A82

Liam Drew Photo source

Explore routes near Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg

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

Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

View route

Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

View route

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.

Coire na Tulaich Route

This is the classic and most popular ascent of Buachaille Etive Mor's Stob Dearg. Starting from Altnafeadh on the A82, the route follows a well-worn path into Coire na Tulaich. The ascent is steep and rocky, especially near the head of the corrie, but once on the ridge, the path leads directly to the summit of Stob Dearg. This route offers stunning views of Glen Etive and Rannoch Moor.

8 km ~5 hours Hard

Curved Ridge Scramble

This is a challenging and exhilarating route for experienced scramblers. Starting from Altnafeadh, the route follows the path towards Coire na Tulaich before branching off towards the base of Curved Ridge. The scramble up Curved Ridge is exposed and requires a good head for heights, but it rewards climbers with spectacular views and a direct route to the summit of Stob Dearg.

7.5 km ~6 hours Very Hard

Lairig Gartain Circular

This is a longer circular route that takes in both Stob Dearg and Stob na Broige, the two main summits of Buachaille Etive Mor. Starting from Altnafeadh, ascend via Coire na Tulaich to Stob Dearg. Follow the ridge southwards over Stob na Doire and Stob Coire Altruim to Stob na Broige. Descend via the Lairig Gartain path, completing a circuit around the mountain.

12 km ~7 hours Hard

Buachaille Etive Mor Traverse

This full traverse of Buachaille Etive Mor is a rewarding but demanding day out. Starting from Altnafeadh, ascend via Coire na Tulaich to Stob Dearg. Continue along the ridge over Stob na Doire, Stob Coire Altruim, and Stob na Broige. Descend via the Lairig Gartain or Lairig Eilde paths, depending on your preference, completing a spectacular traverse of this iconic mountain range.

14 km ~8 hours Very Hard

Winter Coire na Tulaich Ascent

This is a popular winter ascent route for Stob Dearg. Starting from Altnafeadh, the route follows the same path into Coire na Tulaich as the summer route. In winter, the steep headwall of the corrie is often snow-covered and may require ice axe and crampons. The ridge to the summit is typically more wind-swept and easier to traverse. This route offers a quintessential Scottish winter mountaineering experience.

8 km ~6 hours Very Hard
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

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,021m

3,351 ft

Prominence

532m

Coordinates

56.6462, -4.9004

NN222542

OS Map

41

Explorer: 384

At the Summit

The summit features a large stone cairn alongside breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, typically leaving hikers breathless (in both senses of the word!).

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly rocky with sections of grass and heather; a true mixed bag for the adventurous soul.

Buachaille Etive Mor is primarily composed of quartzite, which offers a tough, resilient rock formation that has stood the test of time. The stunning cliffs are remnants from the last Ice Age, showcasing glacial erosion with exquisite geological features.

Views & Scenery

The view from the summit includes the stunning Glencoe Valley, the surrounding Munros, and Loch Liffrigg, sporting a truly picturesque backdrop.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Buachaille' means 'herdsman' in Scots Gaelic, while 'Etive Mor' indicates its great size relative to the nearby river Etive.

Historical Significance

The peak has been a site of historical importance, often associated with traditional Scottish mountain culture and folklore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at Altnafeadh (NN223546) with spaces for about 20 cars. Arrive early to secure a spot, particularly in peak climbing season.

Public Transport

Bus services operate from nearby towns such as Fort William and Glasgow, but check local timetables as they can be infrequent.

Nearby Facilities

There are basic facilities in Ballachulish, including cafes, restaurants, and public toilets. Don't forget to refuel; your legs won't appreciate neglect!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks and steep drops are present, particularly on the ascent. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for all seasons in a day!

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 Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg through the maps

Are there other walkers around Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg?

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 Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg search or of course create your own walk for Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg

Can I organise a walk to Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg?

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 Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg.

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 Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg?

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 Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob Dearg 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: NN222542

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Creise

1,100m

Buachaille Etive Beag - Stob Coire Raineach

924m

Buachaille Etive Mor - Stob na Broige

953m

Buachaille Etive Beag - Stob Dubh

958m

Stob Ghabhar

1,089m
See 5 more nearby hills