Sgorr nan Cearc

Rising above the northern side of Glen More, this basaltic ridge offers a quieter alternative to the island's more famous summits. The ascent involves navigating typical Mull bogs and rocky steps, but rewarding views open up towards the massive bulk of Ben More and the winding waters of Loch Squabain below.

• •The name Sgorr nan Cearc translates from Gaelic as the 'Peak of the Hens', which most likely refers to the red grouse that frequent the heathery lower slopes of the glen.
• •It is often climbed as a secondary objective alongside its higher neighbour, Beinn Talaidh, with the two hills connected by a high, broad col that stays remarkably damp even in midsummer.
• •The summit provides a distinct vantage point over the 'Great Glen of Mull', offering a clear look at the volcanic heart of the island and the steep eastern face of the Munro, Ben More.
• •The hill is composed of layers of Tertiary basalt; this creates the distinctive 'trap' topography of level grassy terraces interrupted by short, sharp rocky scrambles.
• •On a standard misty day, the main navigational challenge is not the height, but successfully negotiating the complex, boggy terrain of the approach without losing a boot.