Map & Elevation
About this Route
This out-and-back climbs Beinn Mhòr, the highest hill on South Uist, from the road end at Loch Aineort. The replacement GPX measures 10.7 km, gains 588 m and gives a walking-time estimate of 3 hours 7 minutes. That estimate does not allow much for the wet, pathless sections, so four to five hours is a more comfortable plan for most walkers.
Begin on the obvious path beyond the turning area and follow it to the stile and small bridge across the inlet. The path then becomes rougher as it goes around the water, passing a sheepfold and a ruin before crossing the head of the inlet. Beyond here the ground is open, wet moorland. Aim for Bealach Crossgard and use the faint ATV track where it helps, but do not follow it blindly when it starts to drift towards Beinn na Tobha.
A gentler line traverses the western flank of Beinn Caorach before entering the long grassy bealach. From there, turn north onto Beinn Mhòr's southern ridge. The climb is steep but mostly grassy, with a faint path appearing higher up. Pass the southern top and continue to the trig point and shelter on the 620 m summit.
Return by the same route, taking care to find the correct line back into Bealach Crossgard. The ridge has steep ground on its eastern side, while the lower moor can be confusing in cloud. The road end is also a turning circle, so park well clear of it. Waterproof boots, gaiters and a proper map and compass are sensible here; the GPX is useful, but it should not be your only means of finding the way.
This is an easier route to the summit than from the waterworks as there is no rocky ridge from the south.
Get Lost Mountaineering
Route Waypoints
Park without blocking the turning circle. Continue on the obvious path beyond the end of the public road.
Cross the stile and small bridge, then follow the rougher path around the inlet rather than trying to cut directly across wet ground.
Pass the small sheepfold and ruin as the path becomes fainter. Keep following the edge of the inlet towards its head.
Leave the inlet and aim north-east towards Bealach Crossgard. The ground is boggy and the path comes and goes, so keep checking the bearing.
Use the faint ATV track at first, then leave it when it drifts towards Beinn na Tobha. Traverse the western flank of Beinn Caorach.
Enter the long grassy bealach and turn north onto Beinn Mhòr's southern ridge. This is an important point to recognise for the return.
Climb the steep grass, pass the southern top and continue to the 620 m trig point and shelter, keeping away from the eastern edge.
Retrace the southern ridge to Bealach Crossgard, cross the moor to the head of the inlet and follow the outward path back to the road end.
Essential Tips
Parking at the road end is very limited. Leave enough room for local vehicles to turn and be prepared to park farther back.
The lower route is boggy and the path is faint or absent in places. Waterproof boots, gaiters and spare socks are all useful.
The bealach is the key to a safe return from the summit ridge. Note the bearing and the shape of the ground before climbing away from it.
Beinn Mhòr's summit ridge has steep drops to the east. In cloud or strong crosswinds, keep well west of the edge and turn back if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Beinn Mhòr?
Plan for four to five hours for the round trip. The official estimate is just over three hours, but that doesn't account for the wet, pathless sections which will slow you down considerably.
Where do I park for Beinn Mhòr on South Uist?
Park at the Loch Aineort road end, but be careful not to block the turning circle. Space is very limited, so you may need to park farther back along the road to leave room for local vehicles.
How high is Beinn Mhòr?
The summit is 620 metres, making it the highest hill on South Uist. The route involves 588 metres of ascent from the road end at Loch Aineort.