Caledonia Hilltreks mountain and hill walks around Scotland since 2003
Home |
Recent Walks |
Mountain Index |
Photo Gallery |
Links |
|
Section 9 - Glen Roy to the Monadh Liath and Strathspey
This section refers to the hills and mountains of Glen Roy, Monadh Liath and Strathspey and includes Creag Meagaidh and a walk across the Corrieyairack Pass. They cover the Corbetts, Grahams and Munros that I have climbed in this area since 2003. Index - Section 9
Trip Reports - Section 9Creag Meagaidh, Stob Poite Coire Ardair and Carn Liath2 July 2010
The starting point for the ascent of these three Munros was the car park at Aberarder on the A86 Newtonmore to Spean Bridge Road. Although it was only 9am there were already three vehicles parked there. I set off along a marked path to the proprty at Aberarder, which was bypassed to the east, before a good quality path led through the trees and into Coill a’Choire, following the north side of the Allt Coire Ardair. The path had been improved since my last visit and the old railway sleepers, which were a nightmare to cross when icy, had been removed. The area was quite overgrown, which was obviously the idea, so they must have good deer management as I never spotted any all day. Around ninety minutes after setting off from the car park I arrived at Lochan a’Choire and just above this loch I stopped for a coffee break trying to shelter from a strong wind. Well at least the midges weren’t going to be a problem on this walk. After my break I continued up the path, which had been upgraded as far as the crossing of the stream flowing down from Stob Poite Coire Ardair. The obvious path steepened before it reached the scree below The Window. The scree was climbed and a patch of snow crossed before reaching Uinneag Coire Ardair. Here a couple of chaps were seated taking a break and another couple, whom I had followed up the glen, were now climbing Stob Poite Coire Ardair. I had views towards Glen Roy but at this time the summit of Creag Meagaidh was in cloud. I commenced the ascent of Creag Meagaidh following a stone path but took a slight diversion to the top of the cliffs above Coire Ardair to take a few photos. I rejoined the path to Creag Meagaidh and by this time the cloud had lifted. I walked to Mad Meg’s cairn and then the final easy gradient to Creag Meagaidh’s summit cairn. Well it would have been easy but the wind was quite strong and contained a few spots of rain. On reaching the cairn some of the surrounding mountains were cloud covered but I had views to Glen Spean and across to Loch Treig. Due to the wind I didn’t linger here but returned to the bealach meeting the two guys I had seen earlier. From the bealach I climbed to the summit cairn of Stob Poite Coire Ardair where I met another couple of guys who were going in the opposite direction. I continued to the easterly cairn, which appears to be a couple of metres lower, before descending the east ridge and climbing to the Munro Top, Sron Coire a’Chriochairein. It was now very windy and I was getting buffeted about at times so progress slowed a bit. However I did manage to find some shelter on the lee side for lunch, looking over to Shesgnan and the Corrieyairack Hills. From this Munro Top I descended to the col at Uinneag Min Choire where on the ascent out of this col I was brought to a halt by the strength of the wind. Once on the move again I climbed to the second Munro Top of the day, Meall an t-Snaim before descending to the col at Uinneag Coire a’Chaorainn. Thereafter it was a gradual ascent to the stony summit of Carn Liath, marked by a cairn. It was now time to return to my car so I descended south crossing some boulder fields. I joined a walker’s path lower down and followed it, as it wound its way to Na Cnapanan. Here there appeared to be a choice of routes so I opted for the path to its east which later swung round below its summit and made for an area of overgrown vegetation including birch trees. Here it was like walking through a jungle. Although the path was obvious, on several occasions I had to push aside the small trees to keep to the route. However I eventually reached the good quality path used that morning and followed it back to the start.
Beinn a’Chaorainn and Beinn Teallach10 April 2010
I drove south from Inverness on the A82 as far as Spean Bridge, then east on the A86 to Roughburn, which was the start for the ascent of these two Munros. There were already three vehicles parked there and I found a space avoiding blocking the deer gate, which requires to be kept clear for vehicular access to the forest. I walked up the track through the forest on a calm and rather hazy morning with the birds singing. At a junction of tracks I took a left and after a short distance came to a small cairn which marked the start of the fire break. Initially the ground was very wet and on entering the gap, boggy, but I managed to avoid most of it by walking through the trees at the side. Higher up there was a slight improvement before I reached the stile over the deer fence. I was now on the open hillside and initially followed traces of a path as it headed towards the rocks of Meall Clachaig, but the path soon disappeared and I made my own way through the rocks and onto a small knoll. The earlier haze was clearing but it was still calm so I stopped here for a second breakfast, looking across to Loch Treig and the snow capped Easains, Grey Corries and Aonach Mor. After my snack I descended slightly before continuing with the ascent of Beinn a’Chaorainn and noticed a lone walker higher up on the ridge. It was a steady climb with the occasional trace of a path and some snow patches, which could be avoided. I arrived on the summit plateau with the vista opening up around me. I crossed an area of snow, which had been softened by the sun and reached the cairn marking the South Top of Beinn a’Chaorainn. I now also had views of Beinn a’Chaorainn's true summit, its North Top, Creag Meagaidh and the cornices above Coire na-Uamha. A sole walker was heading to the highest point as was a man and his dog, who appeared to have come directly up from the Glen. From the South Top I descended to its col with the Middle Top and took a few photos of the cornices. Bootprints went close if not over the edge, which may be a walking route but not in my book. I then made the ascent of Beinn a’Chaoriann keeping away from the cornices, as had other walkers. The man and dog were descending back into the glen and the sole walker was now on the North Top. I headed over to the North Top, where Stob Poite Coire Ardair could be seen beyond Creag Meagaidh. The actual summit of the North Top was buried under the snow so like a few others before me I went to what appeared to be the highest point without, hopefully, going onto the cornice. The descent involved heading north over snow covered terrain before I gradually swung round to the west where the ground became steeper as I crossed a mixture of terrain, including some rocks and snow. Several of the snow fields couldn’t be avoided but the snow was soft so there were no problems crossing it, other than occasionally sinking too far. I reached the Tom Mor bealach just north of the cairn and saw a couple of solo walkers, possibly those I had seen earlier, on the north ridge of Beinn Teallach. After crossing a bit of bog, filled with snow, I climbed onto Beinn Teallach’s north ridge and commenced its ascent passing a group of walkers going in the opposite direction, the first folks I had met all day. I reached Beinn Teallach’s North-East cairn where I came across a chap from Buckie, a member of Scottish Hills, who was just finishing his lunch, and possibly one of the chaps I had been following all day. I accompanied him the few metres to the other, and possibly, higher cairn, where I stopped for lunch while he headed downhill and back home. Members of a hill walking club were also lunching here with views west towards Meall nan Teanga, Sron a'Choire Ghairbh and to the snow capped Kintail mountains beyond. The club members soon departed leaving me in peace and tranquillity and taking in the surrounding vista. Before they left I had ascertained that the crossing of the Allt a ‘Chaorainn wasn’t a problem. Once lunch was over I descended the south ridge of Beinn Teallach, which had a few small snow fields and traces of a path, quite wet and boggy in places. The Allt a ‘Chaorainn was reached and I continued down its west bank, to where it was wider with a couple of small islands, and made the crossing easily. I then followed a vehicle track to the forest edge where instead of continuing on the vehicle track I followed traces of a path through a fire break. This path was rather wet and boggy in places so was probably an error, but it later joined the vehicle track I used in the morning. It was then a short walk back to the car with a plan for an overnight camp once I stocked up with food in Fort William.
Creag Liath24 January 2010
The start for this walk was the end of the public road in Glen Balloch, accessed from the village of Newtonmore where there is parking for a number of vehicles. I was here last October to climb the Munro, Carn Dearg. On the drive south from Inverness the weather was variable with some fresh snow on the A9 and patches of low cloud creating poor visibility. As I set off from the car park and descended to Shepherd’s Bridge the mountain tops were covered in cloud. Beyond the bridge the vehicle track was icy with hard packed rutted snow as it had been used by estate vehicles. Some of the snow had been scraped to establish a route for these vehicles. A shepherd on his All Terrain Vehicle past me headed in the opposite direction and as I headed west the cloud on Creag Liath broke occasionally so I was optimistic that the weather would improve. Prior to the bridge over the Allt Fionndrigh I left this vehicle track and followed another one that run up the east side of the burn. Progress was now a bit easier as there were bare sections of ground some created by animals searching for food. I was well up this glen when the sun broke through and I had views of the snow covered mountains to the north and my intended destination, Creag Liath. Glen Banchor was still in the cloud. I continued to the footbridge over the Allt Fionndrigh where there was a slight drop from the snow covered heather to reach the bridge structure. I then followed bootprints through a gully and when these bootprints headed north I turned and commenced the ascent of the north ridge of Creag Liath. Once I had gained some height I came across some more bootprints as I worked my way up the ridge searching for the easiest route and avoiding some of the large snowfields that dropped into Gleann Ballach. I had earlier spotted a few figures walking north up this glen probably heading for the Munro, Carn Dearg. The sun was still out but there was a lot of cloud floating around and by the time I made it to the summit cairn it was rather cloudy round about. After a short break at the summit I climbed to the south top. The cloud had now broken up and I could see the sun shinning on the snow covered Cairngorms. I descended south-east following bootprints and crossed several snow fields, some of which held my weight while others collapsed slowing progress a bit. The bootprints appeared to head direct for the River Calder but my target was the forest on the west side of the Allt Fionndrigh so I made my own trail. I spotted several hinds who just wandered off. Maybe in the soft snow it was too difficult for them to run. Apparently in these wintry conditions it is best for the deer not to run as they need to conserve energy, so I was pleased that they hadn't rushed off. On reaching the south-west corner of the forest I made my way to the Allt Fionndrigh, crossed this stream, and returned to the car park by my outward route.
Carn Dearg17 October 2009
The start for the ascent of the Munro, Carn Dearg, was the end of the public road in Glen Banchor reached from the main street in Newtonmore. It was a sunny, frosty morning with some early morning mist, which was burning away. On my arrival at the parking area there were signs indicating that stalking was in progress. I wasn’t satisfied that these signs were current as a vast area was being restricted to walkers and the track beyond the car park and along the north side of the River Calder was a Right of Way. I set off along the Right of Way to the nearby Shepherd’s Bridge which was covered in frost. There was no evidence that a vehicle had crossed the bridge that morning. Further on the puddles on the track had a layer of ice and which was still intact. I therefore came to the conclusion that if stalking was taking place it wasn't in the area I was headed. The track was followed along the north shore of the River Calder. On the opposite side I heard the noise of several roaring stags in and around the trees, which were magnificent in their autumnal colours. Just before the boarded up house at Glenballoch I left the Right of Way and walked up the track on the east side of the Allt Fionndrigh with several groups of deer on either side of the glen. The track came to an end and a boggy path led to a footbridge which had recently been repaired. Beyond this bridge the poor quality of the path continued through a gap before I climbed to a small cairn on the south-east ridge of Meall na Ceardaich. Here I sat for a while surrounded by the noise of the roaring stags. The next section of the walk involved a lot of wandering around peat hags (see photo 11) as I made my way towards the Allt Ballach. There was a large group of deer around Meall na Ceardaich and stags were walking back and forth and being chased off by the dominant stag. A few grouse rose as I made progress through the peat hags but on reaching the stream the walking became a bit easier. At the head of Gleann Ballach more peat hags were traversed and some rocks avoided before I climbed towards the north ridge of Carn Dearg. I obviously disturbed a stag and his hinds as they ran off over the ridge and out of sight. Once on the north ridge it was only a short walk to the summit cairn perched on the edge of the easterly cliffs. It was still a lovely sunny day with a slight breeze on the summit and some good views especially clear towards the Cairngorms, the Kintail mountains and the Cullin of Skye. The Drummochter Hills to the south and the Laggan Hills to the west were rather hazy. I left the summit of Carn Dearg and walked the short distance to its South-East Top, classed as a Munro Top, and on my descent from this summit spotted a couple of ptarmigan. I could still hear the roaring of the stags in the corrie below and was able to watch them for a while as the dominant stag chased off any pretenders. The hinds appeared to be aware of my presence as they were barking warnings. It wasn’t till I moved that they did likewise. The col with Carn Macoul was reached and I climbed this Corbett Top before finding somewhere for lunch while watching the deer below me. Afterwards I descended the south ridge which was steep and rocky in places and led to Gleann Lochain. Here a boggy path headed south-east down the side of the Allt an Lochain Duibh. However lower down it became very wet and the route wasn’t obvious so I cut across more wet ground to the ruined house at Dalballoch, where I found the path that headed east along Glen Balloch and the Right of Way back to the start. I never came across any stalkers or their vehicles. I did hear on three occasions shots away in the distance but it could easily have been from adjoining estates.
Beinn Iaruinn31 January 2009
The original plan was to head further west but the forecast, which midweek didn't mention the wind gusts of up to 90mph, put us off any ridge walking so we settled for this Corbett instead. The starting point was Glen Roy, accessed from the A86 at Roy Bridge, at the bridge over the stream flowing out of Coire nan Eun. (Grid Reference NN 30835 89064) Another car was already parked here and we set off up the east side of the stream where there were traces of a path, which soon disappeared. It was a steady climb up through grassy rakes in the mainly heathery hillside aiming for the north-east ridge of Beinn Iaruinn. The driver of the other car parked at the start was slightly further west as he descended to his vehicle. He obviously had an early start and I noted that he later drove further up the Glen, probably to climb one of the Carn Dearg's, as suggested in the SMC Corbett Book. Once on the ridge it was an easy walk to the summit of Beinn Iaruinn crossing a few snow patches. It was fairly windy here but nothing like what was forecasted. Here we had views to the three Glen Roy Carn Deargs, the Creag Meagach Group, the Laggan Munros, the Easians, the Grey Corries, Aonach Mor, Ben Nevis, Meall na Teanga, Stob a'Choire Ghairbh and Ben Tee to mention the nearest. We decided to do a circuit of Coire nan Eun and as expected we were rather exposed to the wind at the top of the Coire and beyond that there were a few snowfields to cross. The route back to the car was a rather steep descent through long heather avoiding the rocks to our left. It was rather slow going and not the most enjoyable of descents. On my previous ascent of Beinn Iaruinn I had included the Graham Leana Mhor to the south.
Geal Charn29 December 2008
The two routes to reach the Munro, Geal Charn, are from Glen Markie or Garva Bridge both accessed from the unclassified road that runs west from Laggan Village on the A86 Newtonmore to Spean Bridge Road. I had decided on the Garva Bridge approach although it did mean an additional six kilometres drive. I was surprised to find that the temperature at Garva Bridge was around freezing as it had been a lot colder on my drive south. There were already two cars in the car park east of Garva Bridge and a couple were also camping nearby. I set off from the car park, crossed Garva Bridge and walked up a vehicle track on the west side of a stream, re-crossed it by another bridge and followed a track and walker’s path up the side of the Feith Talagain. In normal circumstances this path would be wet and boggy but due to the recent cold weather the ground was frozen hard so there was no problem with sinking into the bog. The only obstacle were areas of ice. The Allt Coire nan Dearcag was reached and although the water was low the stream was awkward to cross as most of the boulders were covered in ice. It was easier to enter the water than risk sliding on the ice. Beyond this the ascent of Geal Charn's south-west ridge commenced initially over heather and frozen bog until higher up where there was an obvious path through the frost covered vegetation. Here it was very cold in a strong icy wind and the down jacket came into use. On approaching the summit the cloud covered the top so the last thirty metres or so of ascent were in poor visibility. However I was once again trying out my GPS, having already failed on Carn a’Mhaim and Creag Rainich to get it to work properly, on this occasion it took me directly to the large summit cairn. Hopefully I'll remember how it works for my next outing as it will be a useful addition to map and compass. I remained at the summit for a few minutes hoping that the sun would break through but to no avail so I returned to Garva Bridge by the ascent route.
Carn Dearg and Leana Mhor2 November 2008
There are three Corbetts called Carn Dearg and two Grahams named Leana Mhor in Glen Roy. Our target on this visit was those on the east side of Glen Roy. The glen is reached from Roy Bridge on the A86 Laggan to Spean Bridge Road. Just south of Brae Roy Lodge there is a wooden bridge which crosses the River Roy to a barn. We parked beside the bridge and while preparing to leave were joined by several other cars and walkers. We crossed the bridge and followed the north bank of the stream flowing out of Coire na Reinich. It was a lovely sunny morning with snow lying higher up although being on the west side of the mountain we were in the shade. Higher up we spotted deer and heard the roar of the stags as they roamed around the hinds. As we got nearer the deer became aware of our presence and disappeared over the hill. Despite being in the shade it was warm work as we gained height and followed a tributary onto less steep snow covered ground and eventually into the sun. The snow was rather soft as we walked towards the summit of Carn Dearg avoiding some bog and peat hags. To the north we could see the other two Carn Deargs. On reaching the summit of Carn Dearg there was a cool breeze blowing with great views of the Munros, Beinn Teallach, Beinn a’Chaorainn and Creag Meagaidh, with its ‘Window’, which stood out well in the snow. To the south there were views of the Easians, Grey Corries, Aonach Beag, Aonach Mor, and the summit of Ben Nevis. In the distance we could see the Loch Quoich and Kintail mountains as well as to the north, Ben Wyvis. After a short break at the summit we headed down the south-west ridge of Carn Dearg and met the group of walkers who had obviously come up from Coire Dubh. However we continued on a south-westerly direction to the col with Leana Mhor where we had to cross a fence. The fence was unusual in that it had been folded over to make a double layer of fencing, something I don’t think I have seen before. We ascended a gully before cutting across and heading to the summit of Leana Mhor. The summit was reasonably flat but I eventually found what appeared to be the highest point as it was marked by a few stones. We weren’t the first walkers there that day as there were other boot prints in the snow. There were good views across Glen Roy to Beinn Iaruinn, the other Leana Mhor and beyond to Meall na Teanga. The descent was by the steep north ridge of Leana Mhor to a fence which we followed before crossing the stream flowing from Coire Dubh. We then followed one of the Parallell Roads, before descending to the bridge over the River Roy used earlier that day.
Creag Ruadh30 August 2008
The starting point for the ascent of this Graham was the unclassified road that leaves the A86 at Laggan Village and heads west towards Garva Bridge and the Corrieyairack Pass. Just beyond the house at Sherrabeg I found a place to park and headed across a boggy field to the west of the Allt Sniomhach. As the ground became steeper the terrain was a bit drier. I came to a deer fence which I followed until I reached a mature woodland. Here there was a gate that gave access to the younger plantation so I went through this gate and followed the deer fence separating the two forests. There were traces in the long grass of an all terrain vehicle having used this route but not recently. A black grouse flew off. Higher up I came to more open ground and climbed a rocky ridge, which in places was covered in flowering heather. At the highest point on the ridge I had to climb over a deer fence and walked to Loch na Lairige. It was then a short easy climb to the summit trig point of Creag Ruadh. Here I had good views of Loch Laggan, Lochan na h-Earba and the Grahams Binnein Shuas and Binnein Shios. The higher Monadh Liath mountains were covered in cloud. I took a break sheltering from the wind before heading back to Loch na Lairige and then down the west ridge, following the deer fence, avoiding some rocky outcrops. A snipe was startled and flew out of the long grass. I joined the vehicle track in Glen Shirra and followed it through the forest to Glenshero Lodge. I heard what sounded like a capercaillie but I couldn't see it. From Glenshero Lodge it was just a short walk back along the road to my car.
Creag Dhubh3 August 2008
It was only a short drive from my earlier ascent of Meall nan Eagan to the A86 Newtonmore to Laggan Road. Parking near Auchmore east of Cluny Castle was a bit awkward as the carriageway was rather narrow at this point. Just west of Auchmore and on the opposite side of the road, a large metal gate allowed me access to the field on the north side of the A86. The track shown on the map wasn't immediately obvious but I soon spotted it and followed it uphill. Not long afterwards the rain started and got heavier, however progress was relatively easy and a wooden gate had to be crossed as it was tied to posts. At the end of the track the ground was very wet and boggy so I searched for the best route as I followed a fence towards Creag Dhubh. I met a couple descending who told me that the rocks on the ridge were very slippery due to the rain, which had now ceased, and lichen and that they had come down through the heather. I therefore made a direct ascent of Creag Dhubh through the heather, crossing a fence en-route. On approaching the summit I spotted a stag and stopped to photograph it. I took a few pictures trying to remain relatively still and the stag twice took a couple of steps towards me. However I couldn't remain still for long as the midges were attacking me. As soon as I moved the stag ran off downhill. The twin summit cairns were reached with views of Newtonmore, Glen Truim, Glen Banchor and out west to the Laggan mountains. I was planning to have lunch here but the midges changed my mind so I set off down Creag Dhubh's south ridge. It wasn't too slippery, just a bit of care required now and again. Lower down I joined the upward route and followed it back to the start.
Glen Roy10 – 11 May 2008
Glen Roy has seven mountains that are either Corbetts or Grahams, three have the name Carn Dearg and two are called Leana Mhor which makes the area rather confusing, especially to those that are unaware of this. However my first mountain was the lone Graham, Creag Dhubh, located between Glen Spean in the south and Glen Roy. From Roy Bridge on the A86 in Glen Spean I drove up the unclassified road on the east side of the River Roy as far as the road end at Bohenie Farm. The area is a bit untidy with ruins and bits and pieces lying about but I did manage to find somewhere to leave my car. A new track had been constructed to the forest east of Bohennie Farm as it appears that these trees may be ready for cutting. I followed this track to the forest then walked round its south side and followed traces of the path shown on the map. New fences and gates had been constructed in the area and further east new tress had been planted which in time will probably make this route to Creag Dhubh a bit more awkward. The going was a bit rough in places but fortunately it had been dry for a few days so that helped me cross the wet and boggy sections. There were rumbles of thunder but I was hoping that it would stay dry although it was a bit cloudy. Higher up the final fence was electrified but a plastic grip allowed the fence to be opened at a gate. I thereafter followed a path north for a short distance before leaving it and climbing towards the summit of Creag Dubh. The going was relatively easy over minor dips. As I approached the summit I was surprised to meet a chap coming off the hill as it is unusual to come across walkers on less popular Grahams. After a short chat we parted and I headed to the summit cairn and trig point with views into Glen Spean and across to the hazy Grey Corries and Easains. After sitting there for a while I felt a few spots of rain so headed downhill returning to my car by the route of ascent. I returned to Roy Bridge and drove up the road on the west side of the River Roy to the end of the public road south of Brae Roy Lodge. Once I had sorted my gear I set of passed Brae Roy Lodge to Turret Bridge, crossed the bridge, and followed the vehicle track east along the north side of the River Roy to a point around one kilometre west of the bothy at Luib-chonnal. Here I set up camp and made my evening meal. Later on I took a walk to the bothy which I found to be uninhabited. Work appeared to be on going by the Mountain Bothy Association with the upper level having new flooring and a stove. I could have saved weight and left my tent in the car. The next morning after some occasional light rain I packed and headed up the path towards the Allt Chonnal. The path wasn’t very obvious but there were some All Terrain Vehicle tracks to follow. I later followed the Allt Dubh and then the Allt Beithe Mor into the cloud and to the bealach between Carn Dearg Beag and Carn Dearg. I then climbed to the summit cairn of Carn Dearg. There were no views to be had so I descended to another bealach between the two Carn Deargs which was clear of cloud. I left my rucksack at this bealach and climbed the next Carn Dearg to the north of Gleann Eachach and back into the cloud. The cairn was reached, once again without any views before returning to the bealach for my sack. I then commenced the descent of Gleann Eachach until I found a suitable point to have lunch and a brew. Thereafter I continued down the glen following tracks, which were probably of the animal variety, avoiding several deep gorges. Lower down the walking became less steep as I entered Glen Turrett and headed back to Turrett Bridge and Glen Roy for my car. previous ascent of the Carn Deargs
Carn na Saobhaidhe1 November 2007
This rather remote Corbett is located at the north end of the Monadhliath Mountains and can be climbed from Strath Dearn in the east or from Strath Nairn in the north. I planned to climb it from the north. The starting point was Dunmaglass on the B851 Fort Augustus to Nairn Road just west of a telephone box. There is very limited parking in the area. I set off along the Estate road and shortly thereafter spoke with the gamekeeper. He was a pleasant chap and told me that there were at least a couple of stalking parties out on the hills shooting hinds and that one party was on my ascent route. He ‘supposed’ it would be okay to continue so I took that to mean that access was permitted, well he didn’t say otherwise. My route involved using several of the Estate tracks that would take me to the final ascent across peat hags to a small summit cairn. From my previous ascent, when the higher tracks were snow covered, I was aware that a track, not shown on the map, ran to and probably beyond the Carn na Saobhaidhe/Carn Mhic Iamhair bealach. Lower down there were lots of game birds with numbered shooting posts. On the track up the side of the Allt Uisg an t-Sidhein I came across a parked Land Rover and a few minutes later I heard five shots and spotted a few deer running off. I never saw the shooters. The Estate had obviously constructed numerous tracks and care was required to ensure I followed the correct ones. A lone wind turbine, which wasn’t working, located on the south summit of Beinn Dubhcharaidh was passed on its south side but at this time the cloud started to lower and the rain became a bit more steady. A couple of deer ran off so the stalkers wouldn’t get them, well not that morning at least. Tracks seem to head off on all directions but I managed to keep to the correct one which led towards the source of the Aberchalder Burn. The track required crossing at least a couple of times but the water was quite high so by keeping to the east bank rather than crossing the stream the track was soon rejoined. The low cloud prevented me from seeing where the tracks headed. As well as feeling remote there was also a feeling of being enclosed on the higher tracks which had piles of peat at the edges over six feet high. As I headed along one of these tracks towards the bealach between Carn na Saobhaidhe and Carn Mhic Iamhair another new track led off to my left which was towards the summit of Carn na Saobhaidhe. This track, again with piles of peat at the sides suddenly came out onto the mossy summit of Carn na Saobhaidhe and tracks led a few metres to the summit cairn. This was confirmed by using a GPS as the area was just a vast mass of moss. There was nothing to see due to the low cloud so I about turned and returned by my ascent route. I never came across any other stalking parties but in the afternoon the cloud was well down the hill. For fit cyclists it would be quite possible to cycle all the way to the summit cairn.
Carn nan Tri-tighearnan28 October 2007
The forecast was for showers, wintry on the higher tops, so the plan was to have a short day south-east of Inverness as the west coast was to be hit by frequent showers especially later in the day. Heavy overnight rain had eased and by the time I left Inverness the sun was out. The start of the walk was Dales at the end of public roads from Cawdor passed Drynachan Lodge. The section of road beyond the Lodge was in poor condition. There were ample parking facilities on a grass area just before the ford over the Allt Breac. I crossed the ford and followed the Estate road that climbed above the River Findhorn on its west side. There were lots of game birds around and the Estate had planted several areas of the hillside with cereal crops for the birds to shelter and feed on and had constructed bird enclosures within the crops. Higher up I followed a vehicle track that descended and re-crossed the Allt Breac. However the track was obviously no longer in use as it was overgrown and boggy with deep water filled gouges. I followed the track to its conclusion and then climbed up over heather, some of which over the years had been burnt. The triangulation pillar on the summit of Carn an Uillt Bhric was reached with views across the Moray Firth to the Caithness Hills. Carn an Uillt Breac was 16 metres lower than my target hill which was still 1.5 kilometres further west. Initially the walking was relatively easy over some moss but then I came across an area of peat hags which took a bit of work to get round or across. Several mountain hares ran off when they spotted me. After what seemed ages I eventually reached the summit trig point of Carn nan Tri-tighearnan where, despite the sun, it was cold in the strong wind. From the summit I had some good views of the Cairngorms and Ben Wyvis, the tops of which were cloud covered. I could see at least three different wind farms from this summit. I descended south-east across more peat hags, some of which were rather deep and involved lots of ups and downs. In places I walked along the base of the peat hags which were around 12 feet high. Some areas of peat showed compacted tree roots which were obviously hundreds of years old. I reached the top of a tributary of the Allt Breac where I found an All Terrain Vehicle track which I followed downhill across some boggy ground to a more substantial track. It thereafter joined the vehicle track above the River Findhorn which I used to rejoin my upward route and walk back to the start.
Carn Glas-choire21 October 2007
The start of this walk was the B9007 Duthil to Forres Road approximately one kilometre north of its junction with the A938 Carrbridge to Grantown on Spey Road. A wooden gate on the west side of the road says 'Cawdor Estate - Private Grouse Moor', which interested me as I am not aware of a public grouse moor, well not in Scotland. There are no parking facilities at this location. I went through the gate and followed the vehicle track to Auchterteang Cottage. The track continued through what was the old farm buildings but I was unable to proceed as it was fenced off and two unfriendly dogs were running about barking and one was growling. I'm not a great lover of dogs I don't know so I walked round the property pursued by these dogs until I came across a fence topped by barbed wire. I had no option but cross this fence and rejoin the track. Someone was aware of my presence as a vehicle passed me just before I arrived at the Cottage and I also saw the front door close without any attempt made to control the dogs. Once beyond the Cottage I made good progress across the vast track of grouse moor, although I saw only a few grouse. After a 'shooter's hut' the gradient increased and I followed it to its end which was just below the bealach east of Carn Glas-choire, which is slightly further than the map showed. I climbed to the bealach over some peat hags and here saw some deer and mountain hares. The hares were starting to get their winter coat as they were starting to turn white. The climb to the summit trig point of Carn Glas-choire was rather awkward underfoot as it was very mossy. The moss was very wet and like a sponge with poor grip so I was sliding about. Eventually I reached the summit with hazy views of the Cairngorms, the tops of which were cloud covered and out to the Moray Firth. The plan was to walk east along the ridge and take in the rocky summit of Creag na h-lolaire and rejoin the track beyond the shooter's hut. However this plan was abandoned as the area was a mass of peat hags and slippery moss so I returned to the B9007 by my route of ascent. My only concern was the dogs at Auchterteang Cottage but as I climbed the fence and walked round the property there was no sign of the dogs so my apprehension was unfounded. The enjoyment of the walk was spoilt by the dogs so on my return home I e-mailed Cawdor Estate but to date they have not seen fit to reply. I don't want to walk through farm outbuildings so I have no objection to the area being fenced off. My complaint is the alternative route round the buildings involved clambering over a barbed wire fence. All it requires is a small gate and some signage and in my opinion the Estate would then be conforming with the Land Reform Scotland Act, 2003.
Carn na h-Easgainn9 September 2007
The start of this walk was the A9 Inverness to Perth Road about 14 miles south of the City of Inverness and was conveniently situated for a morning stroll as I was staying there for a few days. A lay-by opposite Dalmagarry Farm allowed for parking at a railway bridge. Here there was a new sign and walking route to Tomatin Distillery a distance of around 2.1 miles. I took this route, which went under the railway bridge, and followed the vehicle track up the side of the Allt a’Chuil. Various tracks led off the main track including the route to the Distillery but my route continued uphill and alongside the stream. The walking was easy using this track which led passed a wooden hut. My map showed the track stopped here but that was not the case as it continued over the top of the hill. A few metres beyond the hut I left the track and initially crossed some wet and boggy ground as I headed for the south ridge of Carn na h-Easgainn. On approaching the ridge I was surprised to find a wind farm on the other side of the hill. The area was a mass of tracks leading to each of the turbines but at least I suppose there were hidden from public view. It was rather windy on the ridge with lots of peat hags to cross before I finally climbed to the trig point marking the summit of Carn na h-Easgainn. Here there were good views of the City of Inverness and of the Moray Firth. Unfortunately to the west it was rather cloudy as rain was forecast for later in the day. The return was by the ascent route and was uneventful.
Meall na h-Arse28 May 2007
The starting point for this walk was Garva Bridge which was accessed along an unclassified road from Laggan village on the A86 Newtonmore to Spean Bridge Road. Garva Bridge is an old Wade Bridge and there is a large parking area just before its crossing. There were a few other vehicles already parked there when we arrived and some walkers were preparing to set out. Once ready we crossed Garva Bridge and followed the other walkers up the side of the Allt Coire Iain Oig. These walkers used the first bridge to re-cross the stream as they were headed for one of the Geal Charn Munros. We continued up the side of the stream to a second bridge where we crossed and commenced the climb to the Leathad Gaothach ridge. I noticed that we were being followed by two other walkers. However they later realised their error and had to re-trace their steps back to the first bridge as they were obviously headed for Geal Charn. Hopefully they will have learned not to follow other walkers without knowing where they are headed. Once on this ridge we followed a fence for a while and upset a couple of grouse who were very alarmed. On treading carefully we came across two very young grouse chicks who blended in well with the surrounding grasses. We crossed the fence and headed to the 844 knoll while blasted by a snow and hail storm. It lasted for around ten minutes and slowed our progress. Once beyond this knoll the storm passed and we headed onto the north-east ridge of Meall na h-Aisre where there were old fence posts to follow to the summit trig point. Here we had views to the Glen Doe Hydro Scheme which was under construction. The weather was deteriorating again so we descended south to Coire Iain Oig where we disturbed some deer sheltering from the wind and sleet. Allt Coire Iain Oig was then followed back to the start.
Gairbeinn7 May 2007
I only had one client this day as after a tough four days one had returned home. My other client also needed to travel home at a reasonable time so it was a short walk to the summit of the Corbett, Gairbeinn in the Monadh Liath range of mountains. It is possible to drive along the unclassified road from Laggan Village on the A86 almost as far as Melgarve, despite the gate at Garva Brdige, as it is a public road. However the road conditions suddenly deteriorate just before Melgarve where the tarred road ceases and General Wade's Military Road over the Corrieyairack Pass commences. From Melgarve it was a steady climb towards the summit of Gairbeinn and the ascent was very uneventful. We did see one chap running down the hill. It was windy on the ridge especially so on approaching the summit cairn. From here we were able to see the construction vehicles at the Glen Doe hydro electric dam. In a few years time the views in this direction will change forever. A few minutes later the cloud came in and the views were curtailed. We found some shelter for a snack before returning to the start by the ascent route disturbing a snipe en-route.
A'Chailleach and Carn Sgulain13 September 2006
It was a windy morning when we set off from the end of the public road in Glen Banchor and followed a vehicle track up the east side of the Allt a'Chaorainn. Higher up the glen we located the bridge over the river and headed for the bothy marked on the map. The bothy lacked a door and window frame but had a table and bench inside but was a bit drafty looking. From the bothy we followed a walker's path onto the south-west ridge of A'Chailleach and followed this path, which later became a bit steeper, to the summit cairn of A'Chailleach. It was very windy here so we didn't hang around and headed down its north side and crossed the Allt Cuil na Caillich. The ascent of Carn Sgulain involved crossing numerous peat hags but we eventually reached its summit. The wind was even stronger now so we returned to the Allt Cuil na Caillich where it was a bit more sheltered. We followed this stream downhill through some rocks until we came to leveller ground. The route down the glen was a bit torturous at times as we wound our way round some bog and lots of peat hags, at times following traces of a path. However we eventually reached the vehicle track used on the upward route and followed it back to Glen Banchor.
Carn a'Chuilinn21 July 2006
I parked my vehicle at the side of the B862 near the bridge over the Allt Doe and walked back along the road to the cattle grid where a small gate allowed access to the hill. I followed a deer fence south-west to the vehicle track that headed up Glen Doe and was astounded to find that it had been upgraded and widened considerably since my last visit. I headed up Glen Doe on this 'motorway' of a track and a few minutes later an Estate staff member stopped and spoke to me. He informed me that the track had been improved to provide access to a new dam under construction several miles to the east and that the road upgrade continued all the way to the dam. He wasn't happy about the road construction but he said according to the plans the width of the track would be reduced once construction of the dam was complete. He was also worried that the construction work had had an adverse affect on the deer population and he didn't know where they had gone, especially with the stalking season approaching. I continued up the Glen and passed several large construction vehicles but most of the workmen were taking a break in the sun. Several vehicles passed me, going in both directions, putting up lots of white dust with very poor visibility for several seconds until the dust settled. I was subsequently stopped and warned about the dangers of being on a 'Construction Site' and told to take care. However a few minutes later I was again stopped and asked if I hadn't seen the signs stating that the area was a 'Construction Site' and informed I shouldn't be there. (There were no signs on the access route recommended to Glen Doe). I was further informed that the site will be closed for five years, which is the length of time it will take to construct the dam. I continued on up Glen Doe, after being warned to take care, and at the turn in the track thankfully left it and headed along a poor quality stalker's path and commenced the climb of Carn a'Chuilinn. I saw a couple of the Estate's deer but they quickly disappeared. I also spotted a couple descending from the summit. As I approached the summit a band of low cloud covered the hill so once I reached the summit cairn I only had limited views east to the numerous lochans. I could hear a pile driver working away in the distance but couldn't see where the construction of the dam was taking place. I lingered on the summit for a while hoping that the cloud would lift to no avail so I commenced the descent to the stalker's path. The cloud did lift but by that time it was too late and I headed back by my route of ascent. I met the couple I saw earlier on the vehicle track and we walked back together to the start. I was stopped for a third time and warned to take care but I was glad when I returned to my car to get away from all the construction and traffic.
Corrieyairack Pass17 May 2006
The Corrieyairack Pass is a Wade's Road, built by General Wade in 1731 to link Fort Augustus with the south. My client on this occasion was from London and was a member of the London Ramblers. She wanted a low level walk and the owner of the property she was residing at suggested a linear walk over the Corrieyairack Pass. Transport wasn't a problem as the client's host was to collect us at the other end. We set off from the Ardachy Road, near Fort Augustus and walked up a path which led to the vehicle track of the Corrieyairack Pass. It was a bright and sunny morning and as we gained height we had good views of Fort Augustus and Loch Ness. Further along the road we had to leave the track to allow a Swiss registered 4 x 4 to pass westwards. Still wondering where he came from. Despite the fact that the road is a public road some of the later stretches are very eroded and would be difficult even for a 4 x 4 to traverse. The next point of interest was the Blackburn Bothy, which had been re-built, and was in good condition. We had a look around it and noted from the Bothy Book that some TGO Challengers had past through in the last few days. Once across the stream we continued along the road, the line of which was obvious as pylons cross the hillside in the same direction and at times parallel to the road. We crossed a few bridges and at a concrete building, probably used in connection with the electric pylons, we took shelter from a cool breeze for lunch. While sitting there I heard what I thought was the noise of a horse and on looking round the building saw half a dozen horses and their riders heading towards Fort Augustus. After lunch it was a steady climb to the highest point of the Pass with views west to the mountains around Glen Dessary and Kintail. Once over the top we met the only walkers on the route who were heading for Blackburn Bothy. The route of descent was rather eroded, especially at the zig zags with some rough walking between boulders. One part of the banking had been washed into the adjoining stream. The gradient of the road became easier as we headed downhill, although with a lot more erosion on this side of the Pass than on the north side. We eventually reached Melgarve Bothy which we visited before continuing east reaching the tarred road a few minutes later. We followed this tarred road for a further couple of miles before we were uplifted as arranged. Geal-charn Mor15 January 2006
It was cold and windy when I parked at Lynwilg, just west of the south entrance to Aviemore. However I was hoping that I could pop up and down this Corbett before the strong winds and heavy rain, which was forecast, arrived. The walk commenced at the bridge over the Allt na Criche, which was probably part of the old A9 Perth to Inverness Road. Here there was a sign indicating that my intended route was part of a 'Right of Way' on the Burma Road which if followed led to the River Dulnain and onto Carrbridge. The first section of the walk was on a tarred road until the Scripture Centre where a locked gate impeded progress. A sign warning of the danger of 'ticks' and another 'Right of Way' sign were posted on the gate. However a style afforded access over the deer fence, and a steep climb followed through the forest. The gradient eased to a steady climb as I followed this vehicle track which took me to An Gleannan where I was passed by an Estate vehicle, the occupants of which were friendly enough as they at least acknowledged my presence. I continued on this track to its highest point where there are a couple of cairns and a monument to a deceased headkeeper. I left the track and followed traces of a path over wind swept heather towards the summit of Geal-charn Mor disturbing a few hares in their winter coats. The path was rather slippery in places and has obviously been created by Corbett baggers. I entered the cloud base at around 750 metres and the path became rather indistinct. The wind was now bitingly cold and there was hoar frost on the heather. I soon reached the frost covered trig point, which is located at the north-east end of the 820 contour mark, but continued south-west until the hill started to drop away and I was satisfied that the trig point was the actual summit. I returned to the trig point but didn't linger as it was very cold and commenced my descent by the route I had taken on the upward route. I soon reached the vehicle track and on descending it I was once again passed by the Estate vehicle I mentioned earlier. Once over the style and onto the tarred road again I heard the call of the buzzards as I walked the short distance back to my car. I had made it up and down before it rained.
Kingussie Corbett11 September 2005
The start of this walk was at the Kingussie Golf Club, just north of the village. Fortunately I had been here before as the start isn't easy to find. We approached the Golf Clubhouse and then walked round the back where a small footbridge took us over the Allt Mor. Thereafter a tarred road is followed on the east side of the stream to just before Pitman Lodge. At this point we continued up the east bank of the stream before it headed out over the heather moors with the heather in bloom giving a purple tinge to the hillside. We disturbed lots of grouse as we went uphill so maybe the estate isn't shooting here this year. The cloud base was at this time above the summits but it was a bit cool so we stopped at a hut, not marked on the OS map, for a coffee break. This was followed by a steep climb before the gradient eased as it reached Beinn Bhreac. Although the OS map shows the track finishing south of Beinn Bhreac it actually continues over the side of this hill and onto Carn an Fhreiceadain which was today's target. From the summit of Carn an Fhreiceadain we crossed over to a large well built cairn, which didn't seem to have any significance, before continuing down the track to the west of Carn an Fhreiceadain. Lower down we stopped for lunch before continuing the descent back towards Pitman Lodge. On this descent section the cloud lowered onto the hills and spots of rain could be felt but we managed to get back to the start before it rained.
Geal Charn18 March 2005It had been a very wet week with lots of snow melt and localised flooding so the ascent of Geal Charn via Glen Markie was cancelled for the drier route from Garva Bridge. From Garva Bridge we followed the track and path, which was a bit wet and boggy, up the side of the Feith Talagain. The water was rushing down this stream with a few small waterfalls. On reaching the point where the Feith Talagain and Allt Coire nan Dearcag merged we were unable to cross the latter stream due to the volume of water so we walked up its south bank. Here it was at least sheltered from the wind. We had to follow the stream for about a kilometre and a half before we found a suitable crossing point. Once over the stream we climbed through some wet snow to get onto the open hillside although there were no views by this time as the cloud had lowered. A steady climb took us to the summit cairn of Geal Charn. En-route we came across some ptarmigan whose winter plumage was starting to change to a darker shade. However due to the lack of snow cover they were fairly obvious to any predators. Geal Charn was Laila's 200th Munro so she only has 84 more to climb. Congratulations Laila and well done. A few photographs were taken of the summit to mark this occasion before we returned to the Allt Coire nan Dearcag, near to where we had crossed it initially. Once across this stream we followed our outward route back to the start.
Gairbeinn28 March 2004From the Corrieyairack Pass at Melgrave a walk along the rough track followed by a climb up onto the summit of Gairbeinn. The intention was to continue out to Corrieyairiack Hill but due to the strong wind this plan was abandoned and a direct return made to Melgrave.
Laggan22 March 2004Frances wanted to climb the two Munros on the north side of Glean Spean. From Roughburn we followed a new track by the side of the river before commencing the steep climb up the snow clad Beinn Chaorainn. As we climbed higher we got into the cloud and on both the South Top and the actual summit we had no views. However as we headed out towards the North Top the cloud cleared and we had spectacular views to our right of twisted cornices. Once down at the bealach a climb up to the summit of Beinn Teallach was interesting due to the different snow formations caused by the wind. From the summit of Beinn Teallach we headed directly back to the start and on descending the south ridge we encountered a heavy snow shower.
Monadh Liath21 March 2004From Garva Bridge I followed the track up the side of the Allt Coire Iain Oig before climbing up onto the Leathad Gaothach where the snow was wet and fairly deep. A climb over the rocky top led me to Meall na h-Aisre. In the sunny weather there were good views of the surrounding hills. A pleasant lunch-break was had before a direct descent back to the Allt Coire Iain Oig and Grava Bridge.
Monadh Liath13 March 2004I set off from Dunmaglass in Strath Nairn with a pleasant walk along the side of a river with lots of game birds flying around. Unfortunately there was evidence of shooting with numerous spent cartridges lying around. This reminded me of a visit to Glenlivet Estate many years ago where various signs asked visitors to take their litter home. However the Estate was littered with spent cartridges which would take many decades to decay. Hillwalkers have a responsibility to ensure a litter free countryside but so do Estate Owners so it is time that they tidied up after any shoot. Further up the glen a new lodge has been constructed west of the present Dunmaglass Lodge but there was no sign of the occupants. However the Estate has erected signs to take you away from them. I followed tracks climbing south passing a steel girder bridge which had been built to span a gorge. The bridge was obviously constructed to assist in gaining access to an adjoining hill where a large wind turbine has been erected. I can appreciate the need for windfarms but not only is it the turbine that blots the landscape but the poles crossing the hillside taking the power off the hill and the bulldozed tracks giving access to the turbines. If this topic is of interest to you an article appeared in January’s edition of the TGO and the Mountaineering Council of Scotland has an item in its March magazine. Getting away from the controversy of windfarms I continued south on various tracks disturbing several herds of deer. Higher up the paths were covered in snow and ice and a new bulldozed track continued beyond the point shown on the map. I am against these ugly tracks scarring the landscape and this one in particular has large unsightly mounds of peat and heather piled up at either side. However I have to admit that the track did make access easier, so it is a catch twenty-two situation. I later had to leave this new track when it changed direction but due to the low cloud I was unable to ascertain where in fact the track was headed. I crossed over frozen bog and heather and reached a small cairn which marked the summit of the Corbett, Carn na Saobhaidhe. The return was the long walk back the way I had come.
Glen Roy9 November 2003To suit my travel arrangements, I drove to the head of Glen Roy where I had two Corbetts left to climb. I walked past Brae Roy Lodge where one sign welcomed considerate hillwalkers while another instructed visitors to remain off the hills between 1 July and 15 February due to deer stalking. I think this to be a bit of a contradiction. It is obvious from these signs that the Estate doesn’t want hillwalkers on their property so I look forward to next year’s legislation, which hopefully will resolve any possible confrontation. It was Sunday and illegal to stalk on the Sabbath, so I continued on my quest to bag the two Carn Deargs. I walked up Glen Turret then a steep climb took me to the peat hags on the south-west side of the hill. Walking round the peat hags, where possible, I climbed to the summit of the first Carn Dearg. After a short break looking north towards Fort Augustus, I descended to the bealach between the two Deargs and climbed up onto my second and final hill of the day. A descent back to Glen Turret, disturbing some stags en-route, and down to Brae Roy Lodge and these signs again, completed my walk.
|
