Cnoc a' Choire
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Cnoc a' Choire
Cnoc a' Choire, perched proudly in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, offers both seasoned hikers and casual walkers an inviting challenge.
Geology
The mountain is primarily made up of Schist, some of the oldest rock formations aged well over 400 million years. This geological backbone provides stunning landscapes and terrain that could have you staring at your feet whilst admiring the eye-catching rocks.
Routes
The most popular route is the Cnoc a' Choire Circuit, which is 8 km in total and typically takes around 4 hours to complete. The path weaves through splendid heather-topped hills, offering a feast for the eyes with every step. While the route is generally moderate, be aware of some slippery areas, especially after rainfall.
Summit Features
At the top, you’ll find a humble stone cairn perfect for basking in the satisfaction of conquering another peak while enjoying a snack. Don’t forget to bring a camera—after all, it counts as proof to your friends that you were on a mountaintop, not just hiding under your duvet.
Terrain Type
Expect a mix of grassy expanses with rocky outcrops, and let’s not forget some boggy spots that might have you doing a little dance to avoid squelching your boots. Good walking shoes are recommended!
Views
The summit provides breathtaking views of Loch Eriboll and the surrounding highlands. On a clear day, you might even catch sight of the Dounreay nuclear power station peeking beyond the hills. The highlights of the view are simply perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike. The best seasons to enjoy the scenery are from late spring to early autumn, although winter brings its own serene beauty.
Hazards
While Cnoc a' Choire is a hike for most abilities, do watch for sudden weather changes that can turn sunny skies into fog faster than you can say 'Scottish weather.' Also, take care on wet trails as they can become quite slippery, turning your hike into an unintended slip-n-slide competition.
Nearby Summits
Cnoc a' Choire is a great launching pad for summits like Ben Hope (927 m) and Ben Loyal (764 m), both rewarding climbs that offer even more spectacular Highland views.
Access
The nearest parking is a small lot on the A836, providing just enough room for a few vehicles. Unfortunately, public transport is a bit limited in this region, best to bring your car if you can. Tongue, the closest village, is quaint and has some delightful spots to grab a bite or a hot drink to recharge after your adventure.
Facilities
While the mountain lacks facilities, just pop down to Tongue for a visit to the local café or to use the public toilet before you set off on your journey.
History
The name 'Cnoc a' Choire' quite literally means 'Hill of the Corrie', a fitting title for a natural wonder like this. Its significance is rooted deeply within the local hiking community, often serving as a beloved benchmark for outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience the majestic landscapes of the North Coast.
Jump into your boots and get ready to explore Cnoc a' Choire. It’s all adventure, stunning views, and perhaps more than a few good laughs.
Happy hiking!
Explore routes near Cnoc a' Choire
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
Ben Klibreck
View route
Loch Migdale from Torroy: Spinningdale pinewood and loch shore walk
View route
Inverness: River Ness and Caledonian Canal circuit
View route
Culbin Forest: Hill 99, Gravel Pit Ponds and Dragonfly Pool
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
Cnoc a' Choire Circuit
A scenic loop starting from the small parking lot at NC500, leading through beautiful heather-covered hills.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
401m
1,316 ft
Prominence
105m
Coordinates
58.0071, -4.5347
NC503047
OS Map
16
Explorer: 441W
At the Summit
The summit features a stone cairn that stands as a proud marker and offers a perfect spot for a well-deserved snack break.
Terrain & Geology
The mountain's composition primarily consists of Schist, formed during the Caledonian Orogeny, giving it a rugged yet captivating landscape.
Views & Scenery
Stunning panoramas of Loch Eriboll and the surrounding hills, along with glimpses of the distant Dounreay power station.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Cnoc a' Choire translates to 'Hill of the Corrie', reflecting its elevation and terrain.
Historical Significance
The mountain is often visitor's gateway to the rugged beauty of the North Coast and is treasured by local hikers.
Getting There & Facilities
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
Parking
A small parking area on the A836 road near Tongue, offering space for a handful of cars.
Public Transport
Limited public transport; best approached by car, but the bus service does reach Tongue from Thurso.
Nearby Facilities
While facilities are sparse on the mountain itself, Tongue has a charming café and a public toilet.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Watch for sudden weather changes, as they can transform a sunny hike into a misty adventure in moments. Additionally, some paths can be slippery after rain.
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 Cnoc a' Choire?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cnoc a' Choire through the maps
Are there other walkers around Cnoc a' Choire?
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 Cnoc a' Choire search or of course create your own walk for Cnoc a' Choire
Can I organise a walk to Cnoc a' Choire?
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 Cnoc a' Choire.
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 Cnoc a' Choire?
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 Cnoc a' Choire 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
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NC503047
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Hills within 30 km
Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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