Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Bidean nam Bian from Glen Coe through Coire nan Lochan and over Stob Coire nan Lochan, returning the same way. It covers 11.2 km and records about 1,553 m of ascent. Allow 7 to 9 hours: the route is steep from the glen, rough high up and includes minor hands-on steps along the connecting ridge.
Cross the River Coe from the A82 parking area and follow the path into Coire nan Lochan. The route rises beside the burn through birch and into the dramatic upper corrie, where several paths and scree lines split beneath the cliffs. Climb onto the north ridge of Stob Coire nan Lochan and follow it to the 1,115 m top. Bidean nam Bian appears beyond, reached by a rocky descent to the connecting col and a final climb to the 1,150 m summit. Short scrambly steps can usually be taken by the simpler lines, but the ridge feels serious in wind, snow or cloud.
Return over Stob Coire nan Lochan and descend the same corrie path. This GPX does not complete the Lost Valley circuit or visit Stob Coire Sgreamhach. Several ridges leave the massif, so take bearings at both summits and do not follow walkers blindly. The descent into Coire nan Lochan is long and steep; keep enough daylight and energy for it.
The ridge connecting the two summits has some of the finest situations in the valley, with minor scrambly steps.
The Great Outdoors
Route Waypoints
Start from the parking area opposite the Coire nan Lochan path. The A82 and car parks are busy, so use the footbridge and designated access.
Cross the river and join the rising path. Do not attempt to ford the River Coe as a shortcut.
Climb beside the burn through birch and rock steps. The path is steep, wet and polished in places.
Enter the upper corrie below the cliffs. Identify the route onto the north ridge rather than following scree gullies.
Climb the broadening ridge towards Stob Coire nan Lochan. Hands may be useful on short rocky steps.
Reach the 1,115 m top and locate the south-west ridge towards Bidean. Note the exact return line before descending.
Cross the rocky connecting ridge to the 1,150 m summit. Stop here; the Lost Valley and Stob Coire Sgreamhach are outside this GPX.
Retrace Stob Coire nan Lochan and its north ridge, then descend the corrie path to Glen Coe.
Essential Tips
That is a separate circuit with different junctions and hazards. Return over Stob Coire nan Lochan exactly as shown.
Cloud can hide the connecting ridge and pull walkers onto the wrong descent. Check bearings before leaving both high points.
There are minor scrambly steps and loose rock. Avoid the route in ice unless equipped and experienced for winter mountains.
The descent from Stob Coire nan Lochan to the A82 is steep and sustained. Keep food, water and daylight in reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Bidean nam Bian from Glen Coe?
Allow 7 to 9 hours for the full route. The ascent is steep from the glen, the terrain gets rough higher up, and the descent back down into Coire nan Lochan is long and demanding.
What's the hardest part of climbing Bidean nam Bian?
The descent from Stob Coire nan Lochan back to the A82 is steep and sustained, so you need to save energy, food, water and daylight for it. The connecting ridge also feels serious in wind, snow or cloud.
Where do I park for Bidean nam Bian?
Start from the Three Sisters Car Park on the A82, opposite the Coire nan Lochan path. Use the footbridge to cross the River Coe — don't try to ford it as a shortcut.