NG9249 : Down from the summit of Maol Chean-dearg

Maol Chean-dearg

933m Elevation
514m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NG9249 : Down from the summit of Maol Chean-dearg

Penny Goodman Photo source

Overview

Maol Chean-dearg: A Munro with Character

Nestled in the stunning Scottish Highlands, Maol Chean-dearg rises proudly with an elevation of 922 meters, making it a prominent Munro that won't shy away from a challenge. Known for its rugged terrain and spectacular views, this mountain is a favourite among seasoned hikers and aspiring adventurers alike.

Geology

Maol Chean-dearg is primarily composed of Lewisian gneiss, one of the oldest rock formations in the UK. The twisted and rugged nature of this ancient rock tells stories of the Earth's tumultuous past and gives the summit its distinct character.

Routes

The most popular route is the North-West Ridge, which spans approximately 8.5 km and typically takes around 4.5 hours to complete. Be prepared for some steep sections that will make you question your life choices, but rest assured, the views will be worth every puff and pant!

Summit Features

Reaching the summit reveals a large cairn—a timeless monument to all who have made the climb. The 360-degree views showcase the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, rewarding your efforts with sights that seem to stretch into forever.

Terrain Type

Expect rocky trails with plenty of boulders to navigate. Bring your best hiking boots and an adventurous spirit!

Views

From the summit, awe-inspiring views of the Red Cuillin and the Isle of Skye await. On clear days, the Outer Hebrides tease their distant presence, and every glance around reveals another stunning vista. Spring and Autumn are particularly rewarding seasons for views, although summer’s longer daylight hours can’t be beaten.

Hazards

As any seasoned hiker knows, the weather in these parts can shift faster than a Highland coo can chew its cud. Rockfalls are a risk on steeper sections, and planning is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Be prepared!

Access

Access to Maol Chean-dearg is relatively straightforward, with the nearest car park situated in Kinloch. For those using public transport, the bus services from Inverness are reliable, ensuring you can get close enough without needing to hike too far before the hike.

Facilities

While Kinloch has limited facilities, you’ll find a few lovely cafes and a public toilet to take care of business before you conquer the Munro.

History

The name Maol Chean-dearg translates to 'Bald Red Head', likely a nod to its rocky summit or the distinctive heather blooms that add a pop of colour to the landscape. The mountain holds a place in local legends and continues to fascinate those who explore its heights.

In conclusion, whether you're driven by thirst for adventure or a hunger for spectacular scenery, Maol Chean-dearg offers a nugget of the Scottish Highlands that won’t disappoint. Lace up those hiking boots, pack a decent snack, and prepare to be enchanted!

Explore routes near Maol Chean-dearg

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

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km ~6h Hard

View route

Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

4.6 km ~2h Hard

View route

Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath

8.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

View route

Route planning notes

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

North-West Ridge

This route takes you steeply up the north-west ridge, offering stunning views and a bit of a workout.

8.5 km ~4.5 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

933m

3,061 ft

Prominence

514m

Coordinates

57.4917, -5.4656

NG924499

OS Map

25

Explorer: 429

At the Summit

The summit features a large cairn, adorned with the offerings of many a bagpiper's tune, and exceptional views across the northern Highlands.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and rugged with sections of grassy slopes and so many boulders you'd think a giant had a game of marbles.

The mountain is primarily composed of Lewisian gneiss, one of the oldest rocks in the UK, giving it a rugged texture that has definitely seen a few quarrels with Mother Nature over the aeons.

Views & Scenery

At the summit, admire views of the Red Cuillin, the Isle of Skye, and on clear days, even as far as the Outer Hebrides.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Maol Chean-dearg roughly translates to 'Bald Red Head', possibly due to its rocky summit resembling a shiny head or due to the heather flowers in bloom.

Historical Significance

Part of the local mythology, the mountain is often mentioned in tales of the area, adding to its allure for adventurers.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at the base of the trail near the hamlet of Kinloch, but be quick, as it fills up faster than a kettle on a stove!

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from Inverness to nearby towns, and a little planning can get you quite close to the starting point.

Nearby Facilities

Limited facilities exist in Kinloch, with a few eateries and a public toilet, perfect for a pre-hike pit-stop!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Rockfall is a possibility on the steeper sections, and sudden weather changes can transform a sunny outing into a soggy affair—so pack accordingly!

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 Maol Chean-dearg?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Maol Chean-dearg through the maps

Are there other walkers around Maol Chean-dearg?

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 Maol Chean-dearg search or of course create your own walk for Maol Chean-dearg

Can I organise a walk to Maol Chean-dearg?

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 Maol Chean-dearg.

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 Maol Chean-dearg?

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 Maol Chean-dearg 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

Maol Chean-dearg location map

Grid reference: NG924499

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Liathach - Spidean a' Choire Leith

1,055m

Liathach - Mullach an Rathain

1,024m

Beinn Eighe - Ruadh-stac Mor

1,010m

Beinn Eighe - Spidean Coire nan Clach

993m

Beinn Alligin - Sgurr Mor

986m
See 5 more nearby hills