Ben Alder

About Ben Alder

Guarded by miles of wilderness, this massive, remote Munro requires a long approach from Dalwhinnie or Loch Laggan. Its sprawling summit plateau and dramatic cliffs above Loch a’ Bhealaich Bheithe offer a true sense of isolation, making it one of the most rewarding multi-day expeditions in the Highlands.

Key Statistics

Find It

Did You Know?

• •The name is derived from the Gaelic Beinn Alladur, often interpreted as 'Mountain of the Rock-ledge'. This likely refers to the prominent crags and cliffs that define its eastern face above the waters of Loch a' Bhealaich Bheithe.
• •Prince Charles Edward Stuart sought refuge on the mountain’s slopes in 1746 following the Battle of Culloden. Known as 'Cluny’s Cage', this hideout was a clever two-story structure built into the hillside by MacPherson of Cluny to evade government troops.
• •The most satisfying ascent is via the 'Long Leachas' and 'Short Leachas', two rocky spurs on the mountain's northern side that provide an airy but relatively straightforward scramble directly onto the high summit plateau.
• •From the summit cairn, the view stretches south down the entire 23-kilometre length of Loch Ericht, while to the west, the distinctive peaks of Ben Nevis and the Grey Corries are visible across the empty expanse of the Great Forest of Alder.
• •Attempting the approach from Dalwhinnie on foot is technically possible, but watching a cyclist glide past you six miles into the trek is a lesson in logistics you will only need to learn once.