NN4187 : Summit cairn of Creag Meagaidh

Creag Meagaidh

1,128m Elevation
868m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN4187 : Summit cairn of Creag Meagaidh

Peter S Photo source

Explore routes near Creag Meagaidh

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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Route planning notes

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

The Coire Ardair Route

This is the classic and most popular route up Creag Meagaidh. Starting from the Aberarder car park, the trail leads into Coire Ardair along a well-maintained path with stunning views of the cliffs and the lochan below. From there, ascend The Window, a steep but manageable col, before heading west to the summit of Creag Meagaidh. Descend via the same route.

16 km ~7 hours Strenuous

The Creag Meagaidh Circuit

A full circuit of the Creag Meagaidh massif, this route begins at the Aberarder car park and follows the Coire Ardair path before ascending The Window. After summiting Creag Meagaidh, continue to Stob Poite Coire Ardair and Carn Liath to complete the horseshoe. The descent from Carn Liath offers expansive views of the surrounding area.

19 km ~9 hours Very Strenuous

Carn Liath Direct Ascent

This route starts at Aberarder and takes a more direct approach to Carn Liath, the easternmost peak on the Creag Meagaidh massif. From Carn Liath, you can extend the walk to include Stob Poite Coire Ardair and Creag Meagaidh itself, or return via the same route for a shorter day out.

13 km ~6 hours Strenuous

The Moy Circular Route

Starting from the village of Moy, this lesser-known route approaches Creag Meagaidh from the north. It involves pathless terrain and navigation skills are essential. After reaching the summit, descend via The Window and return along the Coire Ardair path to complete the circuit.

21 km ~10 hours Very Strenuous

Winter Climb via Easy Gully

A route for experienced winter climbers, this ascent involves climbing the Easy Gully in Coire Ardair. Starting from the Aberarder car park, follow the Coire Ardair path to the base of the cliffs before undertaking the steep and snowy climb. Proper equipment and skills are essential. Descend via The Window.

14 km ~8 hours Technical/Strenuous
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,128m

3,701 ft

Prominence

868m

Coordinates

56.9520, -4.6021

NN418875

OS Map

34 42

Explorer: OL55 401

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a large stone cairn, offering a perfect spot for a well-deserved break and some impressive photo opportunities.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with some grassy patches transitioning to steeper rugged areas near the summit.

Creag Meagaidh is primarily composed of granite and schist, which were formed during the Caledonian Orogeny. The distinctive rock formations offer a glimpse into the region's geological past.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the Nevis range to the south, as well as Loch Laggan and the deep valleys that crisscross the region.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Creag Meagaidh translates to 'the crag of the tempestuous one' in Gaelic, likely reflecting the often wild weather encountered on the mountain.

Historical Significance

The area is known for its rich wildlife, including golden eagles and mountain hares, making it significant for nature enthusiasts as well.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park located at the end of the minor road near the entrance to the Coire Ardair path. Space can be limited, especially on sunny weekends.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service runs to Laggan Locks, with a bit of a walk required to reach the trailheads.

Nearby Facilities

Facilities are limited in the immediate area. The nearest café and toilet facilities can be found in Laggan, around 10 km to the southeast.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be aware of changing weather conditions, especially at higher altitudes. Loose rocks can also make the descent tricky after a 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 Creag Meagaidh?

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

Are there other walkers around Creag Meagaidh?

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 Meagaidh search or of course create your own walk for Creag Meagaidh

Can I organise a walk to Creag Meagaidh?

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 Meagaidh.

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 Meagaidh?

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 Meagaidh here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NN418875

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