NH1226 : View southeast from Carn Eige

Carn Eighe

1,183m Elevation
1,147m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NH1226 : View southeast from Carn Eige

Nigel Brown Photo source

Explore routes near Carn Eighe

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

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km ~6h Hard

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Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

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Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 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.

Classic Carn Eighe Circuit via Glen Affric

This popular route begins at the car park near the end of Glen Affric Road. From here, follow the path alongside the River Affric before ascending the ridge via Bealach Coire Ghaidheil. Carn Eighe is tackled first, followed by its neighbouring Munro, Mam Sodhail, before descending back to the glen.

23 km ~10 hours Hard

Carn Eighe via Beinn Fhionnlaidh Link-Up

Starting at the same Glen Affric car park, this route heads to Carn Eighe via the Munro Beinn Fhionnlaidh. A steep ascent up Beinn Fhionnlaidh provides stunning views over Loch Mullardoch, followed by a ridge walk to Carn Eighe. Descend via the Bealach Coire Ghaidheil path.

20 km ~9 hours Hard

Carn Eighe from Mullardoch Dam

This lesser-trodden route starts at the Mullardoch dam. Follow the northern shore of Loch Mullardoch before ascending Carn Eighe via its northern ridge. This is a remote and demanding approach but offers a quieter alternative to Glen Affric.

21 km ~11 hours Very Hard

Carn Eighe and Mam Sodhail from Alltbeithe Youth Hostel

This route begins at the Alltbeithe Youth Hostel in Glen Affric. Ascend steeply to Bealach Coire Ghaidheil, then bag Mam Sodhail before continuing along the ridge to Carn Eighe. Return via the same path to the hostel.

18 km ~8 hours Hard

Loch Affric Circular Including Carn Eighe

For a longer adventure, start at the Glen Affric car park and circumnavigate Loch Affric as part of the route to Carn Eighe. This involves a mix of walking along lochside paths and tackling the steep ascent to the summit.

30 km ~12 hours Very Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain Historic County Top (pre-1889) Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996)

Elevation

1,183m

3,881 ft

Prominence

1,147m

Coordinates

57.2877, -5.1152

NH123261

OS Map

25

Explorer: 414N

At the Summit

The summit of Carn Eighe is marked by a prominent cairn, offering a perfect spot for a photo op and a well-earned snack break. The panoramic views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with some grassy patches and the odd boggy section – it's the Highlands after all!

The geology of Carn Eighe primarily consists of granite and schist, typical of the rugged Highland landscape. The mountain's formations were shaped by glacial activity, creating dramatic cliffs and smooth ridges that add to its visual appeal.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, expect to see the stunning Loch Mullardoch and the distant peaks of the Glen Affric hills. On a clear day, the view stretches far and wide, giving hikers a chance to appreciate the grandeur of the Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Carn Eighe' translates to 'the cairn of the eagle', reflecting the wildlife that frequents these heights.

Historical Significance

Carn Eighe has long been a revered peak among Munro baggers. Its rugged beauty and challenging terrain offer a true Highland adventure, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at the end of the road leading into Glen Affric, approximately 8 km from the start of the hiking trail. The car park is spacious but can fill up quickly during peak season.

Public Transport

The nearest public transport option is from Cannich, where you can catch a bus to Drumnadrochit; however, a car is recommended for easier access to Glen Affric.

Nearby Facilities

There are limited facilities in Glen Affric, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks. Facilities in Cannich include cafes and small shops, but be sure to check opening times.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of sudden weather changes, which are common in the Highlands. Strong winds and rain can make conditions challenging. Also, be wary of loose rocks on the ascent.

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 Eighe?

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

Are there other walkers around Carn Eighe?

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 Eighe search or of course create your own walk for Carn Eighe

Can I organise a walk to Carn Eighe?

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 Eighe.

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 Eighe?

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 Eighe 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 Eighe location map

Grid reference: NH123261

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

Nearby Hills

Mam Sodhail

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Gleouraich

1,035m

Sgurr Fhuaran

1,069m

Sgurr a' Choire Ghlais

1,084m

Sgurr a' Mhaoraich

1,027m
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