NG9249 : Down from the summit of Maol Chean-dearg

Maol Chean-dearg

933m Elevation
514m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NG9249 : Down from the summit of Maol Chean-dearg

Penny Goodman Photo source

Explore routes near Maol Chean-dearg

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.

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
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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.

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