Chno Dearg

Chno Dearg

Chno Dearg Group Walks | Join a Walk

1,046m Elevation
644m Prominence
Scotland Country

Join group walks, find walking companions and friends, or organise your own!

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Sim High Hill of Britain

Looking for walking companions?

Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Chno Dearg together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.

Elevation

1,046m

3,432 ft

Prominence

644m

Coordinates

56.8301, -4.6608

NN377741

OS Map

41

Explorer: OL50 393

At the Summit

At the summit, hikers will find a sizeable stone cairn and a dramatic trig point, perfect for those summiting selfies. The views will certainly take your breath away, though not literally - we hope!

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky trails grassy slopes and the occasional bog. Be careful of your ankles – they're not as forgiving as your friends might be.

Chno Dearg is primarily composed of granite, resulting in its rugged and challenging terrain. The mountain features several interesting geological formations, including glacial features shaped during the last Ice Age, which add to its allure.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy stunning panoramas of Ben Nevis, the Great Glen and the surrounding peaks of the Nevis Range.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Chno Dearg' translates to 'Red Hill' in Scots Gaelic, likely referencing the hues of the granite in sunrise or sunset.

Historical Significance

Chno Dearg is often favoured by Munro-baggers seeking a more tranquil alternative to busier peaks such as Ben Nevis. It is also part of the scenic and natural heritage of the Scottish Highlands.

Popular Routes

Glen Spean Route

Moderate

This scenic route starts from the southern end of Glen Spean, leading you through lush forested areas and rocky patches before ascending to the peak.

10 km 4 hours

Fersit Circuit

Challenging

A circular route starting from Fersit, providing beautiful views and varied terrain as you approach the summit from the northwest.

12.5 km 5.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at the start of the Glen Spean route, located at NN 352 795. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons, as spaces can fill up quickly.

Public Transport

Buses running from Fort William to Spean Bridge offer access to the area, although they are limited in frequency. A taxi from Fort William is also a viable option.

Nearby Facilities

Fort William has a range of cafes, restaurants, and toilet facilities. A good spot for a post-hike cake and cuppa!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for rapid weather changes, rocky terrain, and the presence of unstable ground in wet conditions. Watch your step, and perhaps consider leaving your high heels at home.

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

Find Walking Companions

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Chno Dearg?

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

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

Can I organise a walk to Chno 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 Chno 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 Chno 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 Chno 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