Beinn a' Chaorainn

About Beinn a' Chaorainn

Situated on the northern side of Glen Spean, this Munro is famous for its dramatic eastern corries and a summit plateau that practically invites navigational errors. It’s the 'Mountain of the Rowan Tree,' though you’ll find significantly more granite than greenery at the top.

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Did You Know?

• •The name translates from Gaelic as 'Mountain of the Rowan Tree.' You won't find many trees on the summit, as the altitude and wind are remarkably hostile to anything taller than a blade of grass.
• •The mountain features a striking 2km-long summit ridge with three distinct tops. This ridge overlooks spectacular eastern corries that offer some of the best winter climbing routes in the Lochaber region.
• •Geologically, the mountain is composed of Moine schists and sits just north of the Great Glen Fault. This massive tectonic rift created the dramatic landscape of Glen Spean that hikers enjoy today.
• •Navigating the summit plateau in a whiteout is a legendary challenge for Scottish hillwalkers. The sudden change in direction required to stay on the ridge is famous for catching out those who trust their instincts over their compass.
• •The summit plateau is notorious for its deceptive 'dog-leg' turn and massive winter cornices. It is essentially a giant trap designed to see if you were paying attention in your navigation course or if you prefer the 'falling gracefully' method of descent.