NB0635 : Peat and gneiss

Forsnabhal [Forsnaval]

205m Elevation
164m Prominence
Scotland Country

Good walks are even better shared.

NB0635 : Peat and gneiss

Neville Goodman Photo source

Explore routes near Forsnabhal [Forsnaval]

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

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

Forsnabhal Circular Route

A stunning circular route starting near the village of Strathcarron, providing a fantastic way to explore this peak alongside beautiful glens and lochs.

10.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 200-299m hill

Elevation

205m

673 ft

Prominence

164m

Coordinates

58.2134, -7.0056

NB061358

OS Map

13

Explorer: 458

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a small stone cairn and offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some sections of soft heather and peat.

Forsnabhal, like many mountains in the Scottish Highlands, is primarily composed of metamorphic rocks, including schists and gneisses. This makes the terrain both interesting to geologists and a delightful challenge for hikers navigating its rocky outcrops.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the Beinn Dronaig and Loch Carron, with the distant Skye hills shimmering on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Forsnabhal' derives from the Gaelic 'Fòrsa na Bhal', meaning 'the height of the hill', reflecting the peak's prominence in the landscape.

Historical Significance

Historically, the area has rich cultural ties and provides insights into Highland heritage, often featuring in Highland gathering stories and local folklore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small parking area near Strathcarron, providing easy access to the trailhead within a short walking distance.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate between Inverness and Strathcarron, making it a convenient trip for hikers relying on public transport.

Nearby Facilities

Strathcarron has a couple of local cafés, and public toilets can typically be found near the village centre.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of sudden weather changes, as conditions can shift from sunny to stormy in the blink of an eye. Wet or boggy areas can be slippery; a good pair of boots can save you from an unintended splash!

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 Forsnabhal [Forsnaval]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Forsnabhal [Forsnaval] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Forsnabhal [Forsnaval]?

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 Forsnabhal [Forsnaval] search or of course create your own walk for Forsnabhal [Forsnaval]

Can I organise a walk to Forsnabhal [Forsnaval]?

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 Forsnabhal [Forsnaval].

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 Forsnabhal [Forsnaval]?

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 Forsnabhal [Forsnaval] 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