Goatfell [Goat Fell]

Goatfell [Goat Fell]

Goatfell [Goat Fell] Group Walks | Join a Walk

875m Elevation
875m Prominence
Scotland Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Sim High Hill of Britain County Top (Historic) County Top (Administrative) County Top (Current) SIB

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Elevation

875m

2,871 ft

Prominence

875m

Coordinates

55.6258, -5.1919

NR991415

OS Map

62 69

Explorer: 361N

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a substantial stone cairn and offers stunning panoramic views of the Isle of Arran and beyond.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and rugged with some grassy sections and steep inclines.

Goatfell is primarily composed of granite, which gives it its rugged and weather-beaten appearance. The mountain is also part of a folded geological structure that has resulted in striking cliffs and steep slopes.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can see the Firth of Clyde, Ailsa Craig, and the peaks of the Kintyre Peninsula. The breathtaking vistas are second to none.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Goatfell's name is derived from the word 'gote', meaning 'goat', possibly referring to wild goats that once roamed the area.

Historical Significance

Goatfell has been a landmark for centuries and is often considered the 'king' of the Isle of Arran, attracting hikers and climbers alike.

Popular Routes

Corrie Route

Moderate

Starting from the village of Corrie, this route ascends Goatfell via the northeast ridge. Begin at the Corrie car park and follow the well-marked path through mixed woodland and open moorland. The route offers stunning views over the Firth of Clyde before joining the main ridge for a rocky but manageable climb to the summit.

11 km 5.5 hours

Brodick Castle Route

Moderate

Starting from Brodick Castle, this is the most popular route up Goatfell. It begins with a pleasant walk through the castle grounds before following a well-trodden trail through heathland and up the southern slopes of the mountain. The path becomes steeper and rockier near the summit, but it is straightforward and rewarding.

10.5 km 5 hours

North Goatfell Circular

Challenging

This circular route starts in Corrie and ascends via the northeast ridge. From the summit of Goatfell, descend along the ridge to North Goatfell before returning to Corrie via a less frequented and scenic path. This route provides a more challenging experience with some minor scrambling along the ridge.

13 km 6.5 hours

Cladach to Goatfell

Moderate

Starting at Cladach Visitor Centre, this route follows a gradual ascent through mixed woodland, joining the main southern path to Goatfell. It is a straightforward and accessible route, suitable for walkers with moderate fitness levels. The climb offers incredible views over Brodick Bay and Arran's rugged interior.

8.5 km 4.5 hours

Cìr Mhòr Traverse via Goatfell

Hard

This ambitious and adventurous route links Goatfell with the neighbouring peak of Cìr Mhòr. Starting in Brodick, ascend Goatfell via the southern path. From the summit, traverse the ridges to North Goatfell and continue to Cìr Mhòr, before descending Glen Rosa back to Brodick. It is a long and challenging day with breathtaking ridge walking and scrambling.

20 km 10 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at Glen Sannox or in Brodick, both offering good access to the trails.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate from Brodick to various parts of the island, including routes to Glen Sannox.

Nearby Facilities

Brodick offers a range of facilities including cafes, restaurants, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, steep cliffs, and sudden weather changes can present risks for hikers. Always check forecasts and keep an eye on the conditions.

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

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Goatfell [Goat Fell]?

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

Are there other walkers around Goatfell [Goat Fell]?

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 Goatfell [Goat Fell] search or of course create your own walk for Goatfell [Goat Fell]

Can I organise a walk to Goatfell [Goat Fell]?

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 Goatfell [Goat Fell].

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 Goatfell [Goat Fell]?

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 Goatfell [Goat Fell] here

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

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