NC3939 : Summit of Carn an Tionail

Carn an Tionail

758m Elevation
209m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NC3939 : Summit of Carn an Tionail

Andrew Spenceley Photo source

Explore routes near Carn an Tionail

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

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7.6 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

B851 Approach

A well-marked trail starting from the B851 road, this route offers hikers a steady ascent with occasional excuses to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.

8 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm

Elevation

758m

2,489 ft

Prominence

209m

Coordinates

58.3104, -4.7457

NC392390

OS Map

16

Explorer: 447S

At the Summit

At the summit, hikers are greeted by a substantial stone cairn, providing both a perfect Instagram backdrop and a reminder that many have ascended before them.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of grassy slopes and rocky outcrops with the occasional boggy patch to remind you that your boots aren't entirely waterproof.

Carn an Tionail is primarily composed of metamorphic rocks characteristic of the Scottish Highlands, forming part of the ancient geology that makes this region a hiker's paradise. The weathered schist and gneiss provide a fascinating geological history.

Views & Scenery

The view from the summit includes the dramatic contours of the Monadhliath Mountains to the south, and a splendid vista of Loch Ness in the north-west.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Carn an Tionail' translates roughly to 'hill of the cairn', indicative of its highland heritage and significance to early settlers.

Historical Significance

This mountain has been a site of local lore, believed to be a gathering point for the Gaelic clans in centuries past.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small parking area at the B851 junction near NC392390, accommodating a few vehicles.

Public Transport

Regular bus services to Inverness provide a good starting point, though a taxi may be necessary to reach the B851 junction.

Nearby Facilities

Drumnadrochit offers a handful of cafes and shops, as well as public toilets to refresh before you hit the trail.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for unpredictable weather and muddy conditions. Strong winds at the summit may require a steady hand and a firm grip on your hat!

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 Carn an Tionail?

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

Are there other walkers around Carn an Tionail?

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 Carn an Tionail search or of course create your own walk for Carn an Tionail

Can I organise a walk to Carn an Tionail?

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 Carn an Tionail.

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 Carn an Tionail?

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 Carn an Tionail 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

Carn an Tionail location map

Grid reference: NC392390

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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