Creag Dhubh
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Creag Dhubh
Elevation: 611 m
Prominence: 37 m
Location: NN677972, Scottish Highlands
Creag Dhubh, often referred to as the 'Black Rock', affords adventurers a quintessential Highland experience. This Marilyn, with a serene elevation of 611 meters, leads you through a landscape carved by glaciers and shaped by millennia of natural history.
Geology
The geological fabric of Creag Dhubh is primarily granite, offering a rugged appearance and a foundation laid by ancient volcanic activity. As you ascend, you'll encounter glacial striations etched into the rock, whispering tales of the last ice age. It’s like nature’s version of graffiti!
Access and Facilities
Access to Creag Dhubh is relatively straightforward, with the nearest car parks situated in Dalmally, a mere stone’s throw away. For public transport enthusiasts, the area boasts a train station with services to and from Glasgow, making it easier than ever to plan a getaway.
Dalmally itself has a quaint charm, equipped with a café to fuel your hike and a small shop for any last-minute essentials. A bite to eat here can set you up nicely for your adventure.
Route Recommendations
The most popular route, aptly named the East Ridge Route, is a moderate trek suitable for most fit hikers. Over around 8.5 km, it takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete, depending on how often you stop to catch a view or a selfie!
Summit Features
At the summit, a prominent stone cairn greets you, standing sentinel over the spectacular views below. It’s a great spot for reflection or a cheeky snack—just don’t forget to take a photo to revel in your triumph!
Views and Seasons
One of the highlights of Creag Dhubh is the panoramic vista from the top, where Loch Awe glimmers in the distance, framed by the magnificent peaks of Ben Cruachan and other surrounding hills. For the best experience, spring and early autumn are highly recommended to witness nature’s colour palette at its finest.
Hazards
As with any Highland adventure, beware of the ever-changing weather. Mist can roll in faster than a Highlander avoiding a sheep, reducing visibility significantly. The terrain can also be tricky, with rocky and boggy segments—make sure your boots are up to the task!
Nearby Summits
If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby peaks of Beinn an Dothaidh (1001 m) and Ben Cruachan (1126 m) offer additional exploration opportunities worthy of a challenge.
Conclusion
Creag Dhubh promises not only a rewarding hike but an insight into the rich tapestry of Scotland’s natural history. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a family looking for a weekend adventure, it is sure to be a trip to remember. Just keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife, and you may come across some four-legged friends along the way! Happy hiking!
Explore routes near Creag Dhubh
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Coire Ardair lochan from Aberarder and back
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Rothiemurchus: Beaver Trail and Lochan Mor
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Aviemore: Loch an Eilein and the Croft Track from Rothiemurchus
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Great Glen Way low route: Fort Augustus to Invermoriston Old Bridge
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
East Ridge Route
A straightforward ascent from the east, offering a gradual climb and stunning views along the way.
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
753m
2,470 ft
Prominence
388m
Coordinates
57.0472, -4.1808
NN677972
OS Map
35
Explorer: OL56 402
At the Summit
The summit features a distinctive stone cairn and an expansive plateau that offers various viewpoints to catch your breath and soak in the scenery.
Terrain & Geology
Creag Dhubh is primarily composed of granite, giving it a rugged appearance synonymous with the Scottish Highlands. The area showcases glacial features, including striations and moraines, that tell stories of the ice ages.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the sprawling expanse of Loch Awe to the south, the towering peaks of Ben Cruachan, and even glimpses of the distant Tyndrum Hills.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Creag Dhubh translates to 'Black Rock,' which possibly refers to its dark granite features.
Historical Significance
Like many Highland summits, Creag Dhubh holds a place in local folklore and history, being part of the ancient lands that hold many secrets of the past.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Car parking is available at the end of the A85 near the village of Dalmally, with additional spaces along the road leading toward the foot of Creag Dhubh.
Public Transport
The nearest train station is in Dalmally, with regular services from Glasgow. Buses also connect Dalmally to surrounding areas.
Nearby Facilities
Dalmally offers a small shop and a café where you can grab a bite or stock up on supplies before your hike.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Weather can change rapidly, leading to reduced visibility. Loose rocks and boggy patches may present risks, so sturdy footwear is advised.
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 Dhubh?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Creag Dhubh through the maps
Are there other walkers around Creag Dhubh?
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 Dhubh search or of course create your own walk for Creag Dhubh
Can I organise a walk to Creag Dhubh?
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 Dhubh.
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 Dhubh?
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 Dhubh here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
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Community Discussion
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Location
Grid reference: NN677972
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