Beinn Narnain

About Beinn Narnain

Rising steeply above Arrochar, this rugged Munro offers a characterful, rocky ascent. The climb up its southern ridge involves enjoyable light scrambling and passes the "Spearhead" crags. From the summit, you’re rewarded with a superb perspective on the jagged silhouette of The Cobbler and the deep waters of Loch Long.

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Did You Know?

• •The name is derived from the Gaelic Beinn Narnain, meaning "hill of notches." This describes the mountain's distinctive, serrated profile, which is particularly evident when viewed from the south near Arrochar.
• •The lower southern slopes are marked by a line of concrete blocks. These were the foundations for a cable railway used during the 1940s construction of the Loch Sloy hydro-electric scheme, and they now serve as a very direct—and very steep—navigation aid for walkers.
• •While the "Spearhead" crags on the south ridge appear to bar the way, they are usually circumvented by a narrow, steep gully. This provides a brief moment of rocky excitement and mild exposure before reaching the summit plateau.
• •The view from the summit cairn is excellent for understanding the local geography. You can look directly down the length of Loch Long to the Firth of Clyde, and on clear days, the volcanic peaks of the Isle of Arran are visible on the horizon.
• •The mountain is separated from its higher neighbour, Beinn Ìme, by the Bealach a' Mhàim. This high pass serves as a three-way junction, allowing walkers to easily combine Narnain with the other Arrochar Alps in a single circular outing.
• •The direct ascent from the Succoth car park is so relentlessly steep that if you haven't questioned your choice of hobby within the first twenty minutes of climbing the "concrete stairs," you are likely on the wrong hill.