Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Ben Cruachan from Falls of Cruachan by the reservoir and Coire Dearg, returning the same way. It covers 10.1 km and records about 1,253 m of ascent. Allow 7 to 9 hours: the approach from Loch Awe is exceptionally steep, and the mountain above the reservoir is rough, remote and exposed.
From the railway halt, enter the woodland and climb beside the Allt Cruachan. The path is narrow, rocky and rooty, with steep drops towards the burn in places. Cross the railway only at the authorised crossing and follow all instructions. Above the trees, continue to the Cruachan Dam and along the western side of the reservoir. Near its head, cross the burn from Coire Dearg and follow the rough path uphill to Bealach an Lochain. Turn south-east onto Ben Cruachan's steep, rocky ridge and climb to the 1,126 m summit.
Return through Coire Dearg, around the reservoir and down the Falls of Cruachan path. This GPX does not continue over Drochaid Ghlas to Stob Diamh or complete the Cruachan Horseshoe. The summit ridge can require hands and is serious in wind, cloud or ice. The woodland descent is tiring and slippery, so leave plenty of daylight and do not rush for a train.
The path follows the burn upstream, becoming loose and rocky higher up before reaching Bealach an Lochain.
Steven Fallon
Route Waypoints
Start beside the A85 and railway halt. Parking is very limited; public transport may be preferable when the seasonal train service operates.
Use only the authorised crossing and obey all signs. Stop, look and listen carefully before crossing the live railway.
Climb steeply through woodland beside the burn. Roots, rocks and wet leaves make the narrow path slippery.
Reach the reservoir dam and continue along the western side. Stay outside operational structures and fenced areas.
Cross the burn flowing from Coire Dearg at the established point. High water may make this unsafe.
Follow the rough, increasingly rocky path uphill to Bealach an Lochain. The ground is wet and loose.
Climb the steep south ridge to the 1,126 m summit. Stop here rather than continuing towards Stob Diamh.
Retrace Coire Dearg, the reservoir and woodland path, using the authorised railway crossing again.
Essential Tips
Cross only at the authorised point and follow current instructions. Never walk along the tracks or use an informal shortcut.
Heavy rain can make the crossing near the reservoir head unsafe. Turn back rather than forcing it.
The ridge towards Drochaid Ghlas and Stob Diamh is not part of this GPX. Return by Coire Dearg.
The final descent is very steep, rooty and slippery. Keep daylight, food and concentration in reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Ben Cruachan from Falls of Cruachan?
Allow 7 to 9 hours for the full route. The approach is exceptionally steep, the terrain above the reservoir is rough and exposed, and the woodland descent at the end is very tiring and slippery.
Is there parking at Falls of Cruachan?
Parking is very limited at the trailhead. You may want to use public transport instead, especially when the seasonal train service to the halt is operating.
What happens if the burn in Coire Dearg is too high to cross?
Turn back if the crossing near the reservoir head looks unsafe after heavy rain. Don't force it — it's better to abandon the route than risk a dangerous crossing.