NN6084 : The Fara Dyke

The Fara

911m Elevation
475m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN6084 : The Fara Dyke

Scott Cormie Photo source

Overview

Exploring The Fara

The Fara is a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands, standing at an elevation of 762 meters. As a Marilyn, it offers both challenge and beauty to intrepid hikers seeking to explore Scotland’s rugged landscapes.

Geography and Geology

The Fara boasts a striking geological composition primarily of schist. Formed over millions of years, this ancient rock contributes to the unique characteristics of the region. Hikers will appreciate how the resulting topography infuses every step with visual intrigue.

Routes

Fara Ridge Walk

This moderate route sprawls about 10 km and typically takes 4 hours to complete. Starting at Dalwhinnie, the trail weaves through the enchanting Highland scenery. As you trek, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including deer and soaring eagles overhead.

Summit Experience

Upon reaching The Fara's summit, you’ll be greeted by the sight of a stout cairn—the perfect beacon for your triumph. Take a moment to rest, unpack those sumptuous snacks, and enjoy the sweeping views of peaks like Ben Alder, which stands proudly in the distance.

Terrain

Hiking the Fara offers diverse terrain—rocky areas will test your footing and grassy patches will whisper sweet nothings of ease. Be prepared to navigate through a few boggy spots; after all, who doesn’t want a good mud splatter on their trousers?

Views from the Top

As you take in the panorama from the summit, you might be lucky enough to spot a loch glistening below or a distant peak peeking through the clouds. The best views are generally enjoyed in spring or early autumn when visibility is superb.

Access and Facilities

Finding your way to The Fara is quite simple. Dalwhinnie provides a small car park for those driving, and if you're feeling particularly adventurous (or eco-conscious), the train journey on the Highland Main Line drops you right at the door of the Highlands. Don’t forget to stop by the local tea room in Dalwhinnie for a warm cup of tea and a slice of cake before your venture.

Safety Considerations

As with any Highland adventure, be mindful of the weather. Conditions can change faster than a sheep can sprint! After a rain, the trails can become slippery, so choose your footing wisely and ensure you're prepared.

In essence, The Fara provides not just a challenge, but an invitation to immerse oneself in the enchanting tapestry of the Scottish Highlands—where every stone has a story and every view is a masterpiece.

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near The Fara

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

Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath

8.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

View route

Rothiemurchus: Beaver Trail and Lochan Mor

6.1 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Aviemore: Loch an Eilein and the Croft Track from Rothiemurchus

11.3 km ~3h 30m Moderate

View route

Kenmore: Drummond Hill Black Rock Trail above Loch Tay

4.6 km ~2h Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

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

Fara Ridge Walk

A scenic route starting from Dalwhinnie, taking you through stunning wilderness and alongside sparkling lochs. This walk may challenge your fitness, but the spectacular views make it worthwhile.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

911m

2,990 ft

Prominence

475m

Coordinates

56.9284, -4.3049

NN598842

OS Map

42

Explorer: OL50 393

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a modest cairn marking the highest point, offering a perfect spot for a well-earned snack and a selfie.

Terrain & Geology

The terrain varies from rocky ascents to grassy slopes with a few boggy patches to keep your adventure interesting (and your boots muddy!).

The Fara is predominantly composed of schist, a metamorphic rock which gives it a rugged aesthetic and a rich landscape formed over millions of years. One can spot interesting formations and rock strata along the way.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, the summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Ben Alder and Loch Ericht, as well as the vast expanse of the Scottish Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Fara' likely derives from the Gaelic 'Fàra', meaning 'enclosure' or 'field', highlighting the rural landscape.

Historical Significance

Historically, the area has been significant for its strategic location, giving insight into ancient settlement patterns and keeping the sheep well guarded!

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Dalwhinnie has a small car park located just off the A9. It holds around 15 vehicles, so arrive early to nab a spot on busy weekends.

Public Transport

Dalwhinnie is accessible by train on the Highland Main Line, making it easier than ever for walking enthusiasts. Just grab your rucksack and hop on!

Nearby Facilities

While there's no café up the mountain, you can find a quaint tea room and shop in Dalwhinnie to stock up on goodies before your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for sudden weather changes which can occur at high altitudes. Also, the trails may be slippery after rain, and care should be taken on rocky terrain.

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 The Fara?

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

Are there other walkers around The Fara?

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 The Fara search or of course create your own walk for The Fara

Can I organise a walk to The Fara?

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 The Fara.

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 The Fara?

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 The Fara 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

The Fara location map

Grid reference: NN598842

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Binnein Mor

550m

Ben Alder

1,148m

Creag Meagaidh

1,128m

Beinn Mheadhoin

541m

Schiehallion

1,083m
See 5 more nearby hills