Creag a' Chliabhain
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Creag a' Chliabhain
Creag a' Chliabhain, standing proudly at 720 meters, may not be the grandest of the Highlands, but it offers a delightful outing for both seasoned hikers and those just starting their trekking journey. Nestled within the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, this Marilyn beckons explorers with its stunning vistas and engaging routes.
Geology
This majestic peak is primarily constructed from ancient schist, a metamorphic rock that has witnessed millennia of geological processes. Glacial activity has sculpted the landscape, creating the rocky outcrops and gentle slopes that challenge even the most seasoned hikers.
Routes
One of the most popular routes begins at Invergarry, allowing hikers to enjoy a pleasant 6.5 km trek that should take about 2.5 hours. The path, while generally moderate in difficulty, has its share of rocky sections that remind you this is no walk in the park (unless it’s an extremely rugged park).
Summit Features
At the pinnacle of Creag a' Chliabhain, you'll find a humble stone cairn to mark your achievement. Perfect for a quick photo op and even quicker bragging rights!
Terrain
Expect a mix of grassy fields, rocky outcrops, and the occasional boggy pitfall that the Scottish Highlands are known for. Those hiking here should be prepared for a bit of everything underfoot.
Views
Once atop, your efforts will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Great Glen and Loch Ness shimmering beneath the sky. On clearer days, the Monadhliath mountains to the east provide a spectacular backdrop. The best seasons for these views are early summer and autumn, when the heather is in bloom and the air is crisp.
Hazards
Watch out for those sneaky boggy areas! They can be quite rascally, especially after a good rain, and might turn your trekking boots into sponges. Stay vigilant and keep your wits about you.
Nearby Summits
Don't stop here! Other enticing peaks like Meall na Teanga (864 meters) and Carn a' Chuilinn (741 meters) are nearby, both of which promise their own unique explorations.
Access
Invergarry provides a quaint starting point for your adventure, with a small parking area just waiting for your faithful steed. Buses from Fort William service this charming village, so even if you're sans car, you're in luck.
Facilities
While the mountain keeps things rustic, Invergarry boasts a few cafes and shops to refuel and refresh before or after your hike. Just remember, the mountain itself doesn’t offer any amenities, so pack those snacks wisely!
History
The name 'Creag a' Chliabhain' means 'the crag of the little tent'. It is a modest moniker for a not-so-modest landscape that speaks to the historical and cultural significance of the Scottish Highlands. Come for the views, stay for the history!
Whether you're an experienced hiker or a curious explorer, Creag a' Chliabhain is sure to charm you with its rugged beauty and fascinating history. Happy hiking!
Explore routes near Creag a' Chliabhain
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.
Great Glen Way low route: Fort Augustus to Invermoriston Old Bridge
View route
Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath
View route
Inverness: River Ness and Caledonian Canal circuit
View route
Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail
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.
Invergarry to Creag a' Chliabhain
This well-trodden path leads from Invergarry, offering a scenic ascent with gradual inclines and occasional rocky patches.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
View all
Photo could not load
NH5720 : Creag a' Chliabhian from Conagleann path
Sarah McGuire
Photo could not load
NH5720 : Summit area and cairn of Creag a' Chliabhain
Trevor Littlewood
Photo could not load
NH5720 : Summit, Creag a' Chliabhain
Richard Webb
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
519m
1,703 ft
Prominence
208m
Coordinates
57.2536, -4.3623
NH575205
OS Map
26 35
Explorer: 417
At the Summit
The summit is adorned with a modest stone cairn that provides the usual photo opportunity for peak baggers.
Terrain & Geology
The mountain is primarily composed of ancient schist, which has been shaped by glacial erosion, resulting in the rugged terrain that we see today.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the majestic peaks of the Great Glen and the shimmering waters of Loch Ness, alongside the Monadhliath mountains to the east.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Creag a' Chliabhain' translates to 'the crag of the little tent', likely referring to the shape of the mountain.
Historical Significance
This mountain, while modest in stature, is a part of the dramatic landscape of the Scottish Highlands, steeped in history and folklore.
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
There is a small parking area at the start of the Invergarry path, suitable for a few cars.
Public Transport
Buses from Fort William pass through Invergarry, providing reasonable access for those relying on public transport.
Nearby Facilities
You can find a few cafes and shops in Invergarry, though facilities on the mountain itself are non-existent. Plan your snacks accordingly!
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Boggy areas can be treacherous, especially in wet weather. Always mind your footing, or you might find yourself taking an unplanned dip!
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 Creag a' Chliabhain?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Creag a' Chliabhain through the maps
Are there other walkers around Creag a' Chliabhain?
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 Creag a' Chliabhain search or of course create your own walk for Creag a' Chliabhain
Can I organise a walk to Creag a' Chliabhain?
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 Creag a' Chliabhain.
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 Creag a' Chliabhain?
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 Creag a' Chliabhain 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: NH575205
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.
Beinn Mheadhoin
541m
Binnein Mor
550m
Beinn Dubhcharaidh
690m
Beinn Mheadhoin
555m
Carn Choire Riabhaich
541m
No comments yet. Be the first.