NN1259 : Rocky summit of the Pap of Glencoe

Pap of Glencoe

742m Elevation
156m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN1259 : Rocky summit of the Pap of Glencoe

Peter S Photo source

Explore routes near Pap of Glencoe

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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Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

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Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km 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.

Standard Route from Car Park near Glencoe Village

This is the most popular route to the Pap of Glencoe. Starting from the car park at the end of the minor road near Glencoe village, follow the clear path heading southeast. The trail ascends steeply through heathery terrain with occasional rocky steps. As you gain height, the views over Loch Leven and the surrounding peaks become increasingly stunning. The path continues to the summit cairn, where you'll enjoy panoramic vistas of the Glencoe mountains. Retrace your steps to return.

7.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Circular Route via Lochan Coire na Tulaich

This route adds variety by incorporating a circular walk. Start from the same car park near Glencoe village and ascend the Pap of Glencoe via the standard path. After enjoying the summit views, descend slightly to the south and head towards Lochan Coire na Tulaich. From there, follow a less trodden path looping back west to the starting point. This route requires good navigation skills and provides a quieter, more adventurous experience.

9 km ~5 hours Challenging

Ascent from the Old Glencoe Road

For a less conventional approach, start from the old Glencoe road at the southern edge of Loch Leven. From here, head directly up the western slopes of the Pap of Glencoe. This is a shorter, steeper, and more direct route, requiring good fitness and some scrambling. The path is less defined than the standard route, but the ascent offers a rewarding sense of solitude and adventure. Descend via the same way to complete the walk.

6 km ~3.5 hours Challenging

Extended Route via Sgorr nam Fiannaidh

This is an extended and strenuous route for experienced walkers. Begin at the car park near Glencoe village and ascend the Pap of Glencoe via the standard route. After reaching the summit, continue along the ridge to Sgorr nam Fiannaidh, a Munro. The ridge walk offers breathtaking views but includes some narrow sections. Descend via the western slopes of Sgorr nam Fiannaidh to the old Glencoe road, then return along the road to your starting point.

12 km ~7 hours Very Challenging

Winter Ascent via Standard Route

This route follows the standard path to the Pap of Glencoe but is tailored for winter conditions. Start from the car park near Glencoe village and ascend via the well-defined path. In winter, the trail requires appropriate equipment such as ice axes and crampons, as well as experience in winter navigation. The snow-covered summit offers unparalleled views of the surrounding snow-clad peaks and valleys. Descend carefully along the same route.

7.5 km ~5 hours Technical
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm

Elevation

742m

2,436 ft

Prominence

156m

Coordinates

56.6888, -5.0629

NN125594

OS Map

41

Explorer: 384

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent rocky outcrop with a stone cairn marking the peak, offering a fantastic vantage point for photos (and the occasional selfie).

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and steep with sections of grassy slopes. Expect a bit of a scramble towards the summit which adds to the fun!

The Pap of Glencoe primarily consists of volcanic rock, formed around 400 million years ago from ancient volcanic activity. Its rugged needles and steep faces are a wonder for geologists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the stunning Loch Leven, the sprawling landscape of Rannoch Moor, and the jagged peaks of the surrounding mountains.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Pap' is derived from the Gaelic word 'Pàpa', meaning 'bubble' or 'pulpit', suggesting its shape logically resembles that of a pulpit.

Historical Significance

The Pap of Glencoe has a significant presence in Scottish folklore and has been a popular climb for generations of adventurers.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The Glencoe Ski Centre offers ample parking, though it can be busy during peak seasons. A small fee may apply.

Public Transport

Buses run from nearby towns such as Fort William and Oban, with stops at the Glencoe Ski Centre.

Nearby Facilities

Cafés and toilets can be found at the Glencoe Ski Centre, making it a convenient start point before your adventure.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for loose rocks and uneven footing, especially in wet conditions. The weather can change rapidly, so be prepared!

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 Pap of Glencoe?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Pap of Glencoe through the maps

Are there other walkers around Pap of Glencoe?

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 Pap of Glencoe search or of course create your own walk for Pap of Glencoe

Can I organise a walk to Pap of Glencoe?

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 Pap of Glencoe.

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 Pap of Glencoe?

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 Pap of Glencoe 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

Pap of Glencoe location map

Grid reference: NN125594

View on OpenStreetMap

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