Map & Elevation
About this Route
An Teallach is best known for Corrag Bhuidhe, but you do not need to cross that exposed ridge to reach Bidein a’ Ghlas Thuill. This route starts at Dundonnell, climbs to the highest point on An Teallach and comes back the same way. It is 11.8 km with 1,021 m of ascent. The GPX gives a time of 4 hours 4 minutes, although many walkers will want longer for the steep ground and the descent.
From the A832, walk past the bungalows and pick up the repaired path towards Meall Garbh. Higher up, the path bends around the head of Coir’ a’ Mhuilinn and climbs past Sròn a’ Choire to a col covered with flat sandstone slabs. From there, a worn path goes steeply up scree and boulders before a short rocky climb reaches the summit.
If the cloud is down, take care with the line around the coire and on the broad ground above it. The upper slope is loose and needs just as much attention coming down as going up. At the summit, enjoy the view towards Sgùrr Fiona if you have it, then turn around and go back to Dundonnell. This GPX does not continue onto the exposed ridge.
This route reaches only Bidein a' Ghlas Thuill, the highest point of An Teallach. It avoids the exposed Corrag Bhuidhe pinnacles and the full traverse, but the upper sandstone remains steep, loose and serious. The head of Coir' a' Mhuilinn is the key navigation point on both legs. In cloud, take a bearing before leaving the summit and resist paths drawing south towards Sgùrr Fiona or the pinnacles.
There is no more impressive sight amongst Scottish mountains.
Walkhighlands
Route Waypoints
From the large lay-by on the A832, walk east along the road for about 250 metres. Turn right onto the path just before the pair of bungalows, pass behind the houses and go through the gate. The repaired path starts climbing almost straight away.
Follow the main path as it zigzags uphill. There is an older, muddier line closer to the Allt a’ Mhuilinn, but the repaired path is the one to use. As you gain height, look back for views over Little Loch Broom and the hills beyond.
The path bends around the head of the coire and the slope eases for a while. Keep following it across the open ground, then climb again towards Sròn a’ Choire. In cloud, check the map here rather than relying on the path alone.
After Sròn a’ Choire, the path reaches a col covered with flat sandstone slabs. Turn south and follow the worn line up the steep scree and boulders. This is the loosest part of the walk, so leave some space between you and anyone ahead.
A short rocky climb leads to the trig point on Bidein a’ Ghlas Thuill at 1,062 m. In clear weather, Sgùrr Fiona and the Corrag Bhuidhe pinnacles are directly ahead across Coire Toll an Lochain. Turn around here; they are not included in this route.
Return to the head of the coire and locate the outward path. Do not follow ridges leading south towards Sgurr Fiona or the pinnacles.
Continue down the northern approach towards Dundonnell. The path is boggy and less distinct once the sandstone ground is behind you.
Go back down the same way. Take your time on the loose slope above the sandstone col, then follow the path past Sròn a’ Choire and around Coir’ a’ Mhuilinn. Stay on the repaired path below Meall Garbh and follow it back through the gate to the road.
Essential Tips
The GPX estimate of 4 hours 4 minutes is quick for a walk with more than 1,000 metres of ascent. Allow longer if you want breaks or if the ground is wet, loose or covered in snow.
On the lower hill, use the repaired path rather than the muddy line beside the burn. It is easier to follow and avoids adding more damage to the older route.
The scree and boulders above the sandstone col can be awkward on the descent. Slow down, keep some distance from other walkers and watch for loose stones.
This route finishes at the trig point on Bidein a’ Ghlas Thuill. Sgùrr Fiona and Corrag Bhuidhe are part of a different walk with exposed scrambling, so only continue if you have planned that route separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Bidein a' Ghlas Thuill?
The estimated walking time is 4 hours 4 minutes for the 11.8 km out-and-back route. Allow extra time for rest stops, navigation on loose ground, and changing weather conditions.
Where do I start the walk to An Teallach?
Start from the Dundonnell Mountain Rescue lay-by on the A832. From there, follow the clear stalkers' path into Coir' a' Mhuilinn.
Can I continue along the ridge to Sgùrr Fiona from the summit?
Not on this route. The Corrag Bhuidhe traverse to Sgùrr Fiona is a separate Grade 3 scramble requiring specific experience and equipment, and is outside the scope of this walk.