NN1772 : On the Carn Mor Dearg ridge

Carn Mor Dearg

1,220m Elevation
162m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN1772 : On the Carn Mor Dearg ridge

Peter S Photo source

Explore routes near Carn Mor 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

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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 Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

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Route planning notes

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

Carn Mor Dearg via the CMD Arete

A classic route that combines Carn Mor Dearg with the CMD Arete and Ben Nevis. Starting from the North Face Car Park near Torlundy, the route ascends through forest tracks and open hillside to Carn Mor Dearg. From there, the CMD Arete offers an exhilarating ridge walk with stunning views, leading to Ben Nevis before descending via the Mountain Track.

15.5 km ~8 hours Challenging

Carn Mor Dearg from the North Face Car Park

This direct route starts from the North Face Car Park and ascends Carn Mor Dearg via the Allt a’Mhuilinn path. It provides a straightforward approach with excellent views of the North Face of Ben Nevis. The route is ideal for those aiming only for Carn Mor Dearg without continuing to Ben Nevis.

12 km ~6 hours Moderate

Carn Mor Dearg and Aonach Mor Circular

A less-traveled circular route that combines Carn Mor Dearg with Aonach Mor. Beginning at the Nevis Range Gondola station, the route ascends Aonach Mor before continuing to Carn Mor Dearg. It offers fantastic ridge walking and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Descend via the Allt Daim path.

18 km ~9 hours Challenging

Carn Mor Dearg via the Lairig Leacach

A quieter and more remote route starting from Spean Bridge. This route heads through the Lairig Leacach pass before ascending the northeast ridge of Carn Mor Dearg. It is a longer but rewarding day with a more secluded feel compared to other routes.

20 km ~10 hours Very Challenging

Ben Nevis and Carn Mor Dearg Two-Day Traverse

A two-day adventure starting from Glen Nevis, ascending Ben Nevis via the Mountain Track, and descending to the CMD Arete for an overnight wild camp. The next day involves summiting Carn Mor Dearg and descending via the Allt a’Mhuilinn. This route is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a memorable mountain experience.

22 km ~14 hours Very Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,220m

4,003 ft

Prominence

162m

Coordinates

56.8053, -4.9866

NN177721

OS Map

41

Explorer: 392

At the Summit

The summit boasts a large cairn and offers breathtaking views across the surrounding peaks. On a clear day, the vistas are simply unparalleled.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with patches of grassy slopes; expect some boggy areas especially after rain.

Carn Mor Dearg is primarily composed of granite, formed during the Caledonian Orogeny, which shaped much of Scotland's rugged landscape. This geological history gives rise to the distinctive features and rock formations found on the mountain.

Views & Scenery

Ben Nevis to the south, the Mamores range, and breathtaking glacial lakes.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Carn Mor Dearg' translates to 'Big Red Hill' in Scots Gaelic, a nod to its distinct reddish hue in certain lights.

Historical Significance

Once a prominent landmark for ancient navigators, the mountain holds cultural significance in local folklore and history, serving as a backdrop for clans and nature enthusiasts alike.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at the North Face car park in Fort Williams, which is most convenient for walkers heading towards Carn Mor Dearg.

Public Transport

Regular bus services from Fort William provide easy access to the area, with stops close to the trailheads.

Nearby Facilities

Fort William offers a range of facilities including cafes, restaurants, and public toilets. It’s wise to stock up before heading out.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, sudden weather changes, and steep drops require caution, especially on the CMD arete.

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 Mor Dearg?

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

Are there other walkers around Carn Mor 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 Carn Mor Dearg search or of course create your own walk for Carn Mor Dearg

Can I organise a walk to Carn Mor 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 Carn Mor 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 Carn Mor 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 Carn Mor 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: NN177721

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Nearby Hills

Ben Nevis [Beinn Nibheis]

Ben Nevis [Beinn Nibheis]

1,345m

Aonach Mor

1,220m

Aonach Beag

1,234m

An Gearanach

982m

Sgurr a' Mhaim

1,099m
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