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Stuc a' Chroin

973m Elevation
252m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Explore routes near Stuc a' Chroin

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

Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

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Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

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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.

Ben Vorlich and Stuc a' Chroin Circuit

This is the classic route combining Ben Vorlich and Stuc a' Chroin. Starting from Ardvorlich on the shore of Loch Earn, the path ascends Ben Vorlich first, offering stunning views over the loch. From the summit of Ben Vorlich, the route descends steeply to the bealach before climbing the rugged and rocky slopes to Stuc a' Chroin's summit. The return retraces your steps back to the bealach and descends via the same path to Ardvorlich.

14 km ~6 hours Hard

Direct Ascent from Ardvorlich

This route begins at Ardvorlich near Loch Earn. Instead of summiting Ben Vorlich, it takes a more direct approach to Stuc a' Chroin. The path follows the Gleann an Dubh Choirein before ascending steeply to the bealach. From here, a rocky scramble leads to the summit of Stuc a' Chroin. The descent follows the same path back to Ardvorlich.

11 km ~5 hours Hard

Glen Ample Approach

Starting at the car park near Ardchullarie More in Glen Ample, this lesser-used route approaches Stuc a' Chroin from the south. The path ascends through Glen Ample before climbing steeply to the bealach between Ben Vorlich and Stuc a' Chroin. From here, the summit is reached after a short scramble. The return follows the same route back down through Glen Ample.

13 km ~5.5 hours Hard

Stuc a' Chroin from Callander via Braeleny

This longer and more remote route begins near Braeleny Farm, accessed from Callander. The path heads through Glen Kendrum before climbing to the bealach east of Stuc a' Chroin. From here, the summit is reached after a rugged climb. The return follows the same route back to Braeleny. This is a quieter and less-traveled option for experienced walkers.

18 km ~7.5 hours Hard

Ben Vorlich and Stuc a' Chroin via Coire Buidhe

This alternative circuit starts at Ardvorlich and ascends Ben Vorlich first. From the summit, the route descends via Coire Buidhe, bypassing the usual bealach, and takes a more rugged approach to Stuc a' Chroin. After summiting, the descent follows the standard path back to Ardvorlich. This route adds variety and requires good navigation skills.

15 km ~6.5 hours Very Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

973m

3,192 ft

Prominence

252m

Coordinates

56.3293, -4.2375

NN617174

OS Map

57

Explorer: OL46N OL47W 365N 368W

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a small cairn marking the top along with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Terrain & Geology

The ascent features a mix of rocky outcrops and grassy slopes with some boggy patches that remind you of Scotland's infamous weather.

Stuc a' Chroin primarily consists of rugged schist rock, part of the Grampian geology, shaped over millennia by glacial activity which has left striking features for all to admire.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy views of Loch Voil, the Trossachs, and the spectacular Ben More range.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Stuc a' Chroin' translates to 'Peak of the Slope', reflecting its steep ascendancy and prominence in the landscape.

Historical Significance

The mountain holds cultural significance in Scottish folklore, seen as a guardian of the glens and a symbol of natural beauty.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the end of the public road in Balquhidder, which accommodates several vehicles and ensures you set off well-rested.

Public Transport

Regular buses run to Balquhidder from nearby towns, but check the schedule as service can be irregular, especially off-peak.

Nearby Facilities

There are small cafes in Lochearnhead, and public toilets can be found there as well, though nothing at the trailhead itself.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of sudden weather changes, as visibility can drop dramatically. The terrain can also be rugged, so ensure you have sturdy footwear.

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 Stuc a' Chroin?

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

Are there other walkers around Stuc a' Chroin?

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 Stuc a' Chroin search or of course create your own walk for Stuc a' Chroin

Can I organise a walk to Stuc a' Chroin?

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 Stuc a' Chroin.

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 Stuc a' Chroin?

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 Stuc a' Chroin 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: NN617174

View on OpenStreetMap

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