NO0385 : Boggy col, Carn Liath

Geal Charn Far North Top

788m Elevation
21m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NO0385 : Boggy col, Carn Liath

Richard Webb Photo source

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North Route from A86

A straightforward ascent starting from the A86, this route provides a direct approach to the summit with minimal navigation challenges.

6.5 km ~3 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Subsimm

Elevation

788m

2,585 ft

Prominence

21m

Coordinates

56.9512, -3.5881

NO035855

OS Map

43

Explorer: OL52N 387N

At the Summit

The summit features a small stone cairn, a testament to the many hikers who’ve enjoyed the view from here. The panoramic vistas are certainly worth the effort.

Terrain & Geology

The terrain is a mix of grassy slopes and rocky outcrops with the occasional boggy patch to keep you on your toes.

Geal Charn is primarily composed of schist, which creates a rugged and interesting landscape. The schist is a metamorphic rock, formed under high pressure and temperature, which gives it a characteristic foliation and layered appearance.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the distant contours of the Cairngorms to the east and the Monadhliath Hills to the south.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Geal Charn' translates from Gaelic as 'White Cairn', hinting at its distinctive appearance, especially under a blanket of snow.

Historical Significance

Geal Charn and its surrounding area were historically significant for hunting and as a part of local folklore, rich with stories of spirits and the supernatural.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at a layby along the A86 near Balsporran Cottages, which can accommodate several cars.

Public Transport

There are limited bus services along the A86, so check the local timetables to plan your trip.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities are in Newtonmore, where you can find cafes, shops, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Variable weather conditions can change rapidly, and the terrain may be slippery, especially in wet conditions. Beware of sudden drops and loose rocks.

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 Geal Charn Far North Top?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Geal Charn Far North Top through the maps

Are there other walkers around Geal Charn Far North Top?

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 Geal Charn Far North Top search or of course create your own walk for Geal Charn Far North Top

Can I organise a walk to Geal Charn Far North Top?

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 Geal Charn Far North Top.

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 Geal Charn Far North Top?

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 Geal Charn Far North Top 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

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NO035855

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