Geal Charn

About Geal Charn

Rising between Loch Ericht and the Ben Alder forest, this substantial Corbett is defined by broad, mossy slopes and a sense of deep isolation. It is an excellent viewpoint, looking across the remote waters of Loch Pattack towards the formidable eastern crags of the neighbouring Ben Alder massif.

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Did You Know?

• •The name comes from the Gaelic Geal-Chàrn, meaning 'White Cairn' or 'White Peak'. This likely refers to the quartz-scattered rocks found on its upper reaches, which catch the light and can give the summit a pale appearance even after the winter snows have melted.
• •Most walkers reach this hill via a long approach from Dalwhinnie along the shores of Loch Ericht. While the walk-in is significant, the terrain is relatively gentle, making it a popular choice for those looking to experience the scale of the Ben Alder forest without the technicality of its higher neighbours.
• •The summit offers an unparalleled perspective of the 'Long Leachas' and 'Short Leachas' ridges on Ben Alder. These dramatic, rocky spurs look particularly impressive when viewed from the north across the flat basin of the Culra ruins.
• •Navigating to the summit is straightforward in clear weather, but the real difficulty is conversational; there are many hills named Geal Charn in the Highlands, so you will need to be very specific at the pub later to avoid being congratulated for a Munro you didn't climb.