Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Beinn Tarsuinn from Glen Rosa by Coire a' Bhradain and Beinn Nuis, returning by the same ridge. It covers 15.0 km with about 1,072 m of ascent, so allow 6 to 8 hours. The approach track is easy, but the burn crossing, boggy corrie and rough sandstone ridge make this a full mountain day.
Follow the Glen Rosa track north from the campsite area to the bridge over Garbh Allt. Leave the main glen here and climb beside the burn into Coire a' Bhradain. The path is wet and rough, and the usual crossing of Garbh Allt can be unsafe after heavy rain. Beyond it, climb the southern ridge to Beinn Nuis. Higher up, path repairs lead around some of the roughest ground before the small summit cairn at 792 m. Continue north over the rocky ridge, dropping to the col before the final climb to Beinn Tarsuinn at 826 m.
Return over Beinn Nuis and descend through Coire a' Bhradain to Glen Rosa. This GPX does not continue across A' Chìr or Cìr Mhòr; those ridges involve harder and more exposed ground. The sandstone slabs are slippery when wet, and cloud can make the correct descent from both summits difficult to find. Check the burn before committing, carry a map and compass, and leave enough daylight for the long walk back through the glen.
Rough bouldery paths, very boggy in Coire a' Bhradain until the high ground is reached.
Walkhighlands
Route Waypoints
Start near the campsite at the end of the public road. Parking is limited and popular, so keep the road and campsite access clear.
Follow the broad track north beside Glenrosa Water. Beinn Nuis comes into view ahead on the left side of the glen.
Cross the main bridge, then leave the Glen Rosa track for the path climbing beside Garbh Allt into Coire a' Bhradain.
Cross the burn at the established point. If it is in spate, turn back rather than searching steep or fenced ground for another crossing.
Climb the broad southern ridge, using the repaired path near the edge where it gives the soundest line through rough ground.
Reach the small cairn at 792 m. Continue north on the rocky crest, taking care on wet slabs and around short drops.
Cross the col and climb to the 826 m summit. Stop here: A' Chìr and Cìr Mhòr are not part of this GPX.
Retrace Beinn Nuis, the Garbh Allt path and the glen track. Take care locating the correct south-going ridge in cloud.
Look right for the granite profile before the final ascent. Stay on the ridge path and avoid lines dropping towards Coire a’ Bhradain.
Cross the first of the twin tops and continue a short distance north to the higher summit.
Reach the higher northern top at 826 m. Turn around here; the continuation towards A’ Chìr is not part of this guide.
Return over Beinn Nuis, recross Garbh Allt, descend beside the burn and follow the main Glen Rosa track to the start.
Essential Tips
The burn can become impassable after rain. A high water level is a reason to turn around, not to improvise a risky crossing.
The ridge beyond Beinn Tarsuinn includes serious scrambling and exposure. Return over Beinn Nuis exactly as shown by this GPX.
Coire a' Bhradain is boggy and the high ridge is bouldery. Waterproof boots and spare time are more useful than a fast schedule.
In mist, take a bearing from Beinn Tarsuinn back to the col and from Beinn Nuis onto its southern ridge before moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Beinn Tarsuinn hike take?
The official estimate is 4 hours 34 minutes, but expect it to take longer. The route is much rougher than that time suggests, with deep bogs above Garbh Allt and a rocky granite ridge that slows progress considerably.
Is the path to Beinn Tarsuinn boggy?
Yes, extremely. The moor section above Garbh Allt is regularly waterlogged and can be far slower than the distance suggests. Waterproof boots and spare socks are strongly recommended.
Do I need scrambling experience for Beinn Tarsuinn?
Some light scrambling is required, particularly on the rocky path after crossing Garbh Allt and along the granite ridge. The path sometimes moves left of the crest to avoid harder sections, but the route still needs care in both directions.