NN1553 : Nearing summit of Stob Coire Sgreamhach

Stob Coire Sgreamhach

1,072m Elevation
128m Prominence
Scotland Country

Good walks are even better shared.

NN1553 : Nearing summit of Stob Coire Sgreamhach

Russel Wills Photo source

Overview

Stob Coire Sgreamhach

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Stob Coire Sgreamhach offers adventurers a rugged experience with breathtaking views. As a Munro, it stands proudly at an elevation of 1040 meters, drawing hikers from far and wide.

Geology

The mountain is primarily made up of schist, a metamorphic rock known for its tough exterior and complex formations. This rugged geology not only defines the mountain’s character but also provides a glimpse into the powerful tectonic forces that have shaped this land over millennia.

Routes

The most popular route up Stob Coire Sgreamhach is the Coire Ghabhair Route. This 8 km trek typically takes around 4.5 hours and offers a challenging ascent through stunning scenery. Be prepared for some steep sections, especially near the summit where you might want to channel your inner mountain goat!

Summit Features

At the summit, you'll be greeted by a robust stone cairn. It's a perfect spot to catch your breath and snap some photos that will surely inspire envy in your friends. The views are simply out of this world, especially on clear days.

Terrain and Hazards

The terrain is mostly rocky with some grassy patches, but beware - loose rocks and steep drops can make the ascent tricky. The weather can change faster than you can say 'Scottish summer', so pack accordingly and keep an eye on the skies!

Views

From the summit, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas of surrounding peaks including Glen Coe and Loch Etive, with the infamous Buachaille Etive Mor sitting majestically to the south. The best time to soak in these views is during spring and early autumn when the landscape is doing its best impression of a postcard.

Access

The nearest parking is conveniently located along the A82, just a stone's throw from the starting point of the hike. For those relying on public transport, there are regular buses that run between Fort William and the A82, although their timetable can be as unpredictable as the Scottish weather.

Facilities

While you won’t find any facilities on the mountain, nearby villages like Glen Etive do have a couple of cafes if you fancy a post-hike treat! Just remember, calories consumed on hikes do not count.

History

The name 'Sgreamhach' evokes the spirit of the mountain – winds can whip around the summit ferociously. Its historical and cultural significance adds layers to the adventure, making it a cherished destination for both locals and travellers.

So, lace up your boots, grab your walking sticks, and set off on a journey to conquer Stob Coire Sgreamhach – where every step is a story!

Explore routes near Stob Coire Sgreamhach

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

Route planning notes

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

The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) Approach

This popular route begins at the car park in Glen Coe (grid reference NN173568) and ascends into the striking Lost Valley. The path climbs steeply through woodland and over rocky terrain before reaching the hidden valley. From here, a challenging ascent up scree and rocky slopes leads to the summit of Stob Coire Sgreamhach. Stunning views of Glen Coe and the surrounding peaks reward the effort.

8 km ~5.5 hours Challenging

Bidean nam Bian Traverse

Starting at the Glen Coe car park (grid reference NN173568), this classic ridge route takes in both Bidean nam Bian and Stob Coire Sgreamhach. The route ascends via Coire nan Lochan, reaching Bidean nam Bian first before continuing along the ridge to Stob Coire Sgreamhach. The descent follows the Lost Valley, completing a dramatic and rewarding circular hike.

10.5 km ~7 hours Very Challenging

Beinn Fhada and Stob Coire Sgreamhach Circuit

This lesser-trodden route starts at the car park near the A82 road (grid reference NN166567) and ascends via the Beinn Fhada ridge. The path offers spectacular views down into the Lost Valley and Glen Coe. After summiting Beinn Fhada, the route continues to Stob Coire Sgreamhach before descending into the Lost Valley. A steep and rocky descent path leads back to the starting point.

12 km ~7.5 hours Challenging

Stob Coire Sgreamhach Direct Ascent via Coire Gabhail

This straightforward yet strenuous route takes a direct approach to Stob Coire Sgreamhach via the Lost Valley. Starting from the Glen Coe car park (grid reference NN173568), the route follows the well-marked path into the Lost Valley before tackling the steep climb through scree and rocky terrain to the summit. It’s a shorter alternative to the ridge routes but still very demanding.

7.5 km ~5 hours Challenging

Three Sisters and Stob Coire Sgreamhach Loop

This extended circuit begins at the car park below the Three Sisters in Glen Coe (grid reference NN170567). The route ascends past the dramatic buttresses of the Three Sisters into Coire Gabhail, then climbs steeply to Stob Coire Sgreamhach. A ridge traverse connects to Bidean nam Bian before descending through Coire nan Lochan, providing a comprehensive exploration of the area's rugged beauty.

13 km ~8 hours Very Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,072m

3,517 ft

Prominence

128m

Coordinates

56.6383, -5.0103

NN154536

OS Map

41

Explorer: 384

At the Summit

The summit features a substantial stone cairn offering a perfect photo opportunity. On clear days, the views are breathtaking, making it a favourite among summit baggers.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with some grassy patches steep in sections especially near the summit.

Stob Coire Sgreamhach is primarily composed of schist, a metamorphic rock that adds a rugged character to the terrain. The twisting ridges and steep faces provide a geological insight into the intense forces that shaped this region during the Caledonian Orogeny.

Views & Scenery

Panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Buachaille Etive Mor and Loch Etive, are particularly stunning. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Ben Nevis to the north.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Sgreamhach' translates roughly to 'the screamer', likely due to the winds that whip across the summit!

Historical Significance

Stob Coire Sgreamhach is respected by local mountaineers and is part of the stunning landscape that features heavily in Scottish folklore and outdoor pursuits.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a parking area on the A82 near the start of the Coire Ghabhair route, which can accommodate several vehicles.

Public Transport

Regular buses run from nearby towns such as Fort William to the A82, though schedules may vary, so check in advance.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly at the mountain, but nearby villages offer cafes and toilet facilities; Glen Etive village has a couple of options for a well-deserved post-hike coffee.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, steep drops near the summit, and rapidly changing weather 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

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Stob Coire Sgreamhach?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Stob Coire Sgreamhach through the maps

Are there other walkers around Stob Coire Sgreamhach?

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 Stob Coire Sgreamhach search or of course create your own walk for Stob Coire Sgreamhach

Can I organise a walk to Stob Coire Sgreamhach?

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 Stob Coire Sgreamhach.

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 Stob Coire Sgreamhach?

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 Stob Coire Sgreamhach here

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

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