NH3622 : Meall a’ Chrathaich

Meall a' Chrathaich

679m Elevation
184m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NH3622 : Meall a’ Chrathaich

Trevor Littlewood Photo source

Explore routes near Meall a' Chrathaich

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

Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

4.6 km ~2h Hard

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Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath

8.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

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Banavie to Glen Loy Aqueduct: Neptune’s Staircase Canal Towpath

13.3 km ~4h Easy

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Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km ~6h 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.

Glen Affric Approach

This scenic route starts from the beautiful Glen Affric and winds its way up through lush forestry before ascending to the open moorland leading to the summit.

9.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Moy Bridge Shortcut

A more challenging route that steeply climbs from Moy Bridge, leading through heather-clad slopes and providing a good workout for eager hikers.

7.5 km ~3 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm

Elevation

679m

2,227 ft

Prominence

184m

Coordinates

57.2599, -4.7195

NH360220

OS Map

26

Explorer: 415

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn that proudly announces your arrival at 811 meters, with dramatic views to reward your efforts.

Terrain & Geology

The terrain is a mix of rocky outcrops and grassy slopes interspersed with patches of heather and occasional bogs – a true testament to highland variety.

The mountain is primarily formed from ancient Lewisian gneiss, providing an intriguing glimpse into Scotland's geological past. Its rugged surfaces are weathered by time and elements, offering both beauty and a reminder of the forces that shaped this landscape.

Views & Scenery

At the summit, you can feast your eyes on breathtaking views of Loch Affric, the rugged peaks of the surrounding mountains, and, on clear days, the sweeping lands towards the Isle of Skye.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Meall a' Chrathaich' translates to 'Hill of the Cattle,' reflecting the region's pastoral history.

Historical Significance

The area around the mountain has a rich cultural backdrop, with evidence of ancient settlement and a prominent place within the Scottish Gaelic heritage.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking can be found at the Glen Affric car park, which is spacious and offers a good starting point for your hike.

Public Transport

Regular buses from Inverness to Drumnadrochit provide access to the area, although a car is advisable for ease of travel.

Nearby Facilities

There are limited facilities in the vicinity, with a café and toilet facilities available in Drumnadrochit. It’s wise to pack provisions for your adventure.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for sudden changes in weather, slippery paths, and uneven terrain; always check the forecast before setting out!

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 Meall a' Chrathaich?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Meall a' Chrathaich through the maps

Are there other walkers around Meall a' Chrathaich?

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 Meall a' Chrathaich search or of course create your own walk for Meall a' Chrathaich

Can I organise a walk to Meall a' Chrathaich?

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 Meall a' Chrathaich.

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 Meall a' Chrathaich?

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 Meall a' Chrathaich 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: NH360220

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

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Sgurr a' Choire Ghlais

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Cul Mor

393m

Creag Meagaidh

1,128m

Carn Eighe

1,183m
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